Apprenticeships
If you are aged 16+, in employment and interested in training as an Apprentice, or Advanced Apprentice, then this page is for you. See also the Students 16+ page.
Have a look at our video (right) in which some apprentices describe what doing an apprenticeship is like for them.
Contact us if you need any further details.
An Apprenticeship combines hands-on training at work where you will receive tutoring and be assessed, allowing you to learn on the job while gaining knowledge, skills, nationally recognised qualifications and earning money - all at the same time!
Read more about what Apprentices earn and see Students 16+ for further education opportunities.
Apprenticeships are made up of a number of components which are all relevant to your specific job role.
Each component is designed to demonstrate a level of skill in your chosen field of work.
You will need to be able to work 16 hours per week and you will need to complete all of the following to get sufficient credits to achieve your Apprenticeship:
| Component | Level |
|---|---|
| Competency based units | These allow you to demonstrate the skills required at the level of your job role |
| Knowledge Based units | These units show that you understand the theory that goes along with the practical skills |
| A Technical Certificate | This is needed to demonstrate a more in-depth knowledge and understanding of the Core Units within your award |
| Key skills or Functional Skills | These units demonstrate a good level of understanding of English and Maths and help you to understand their significance in the workplace |
| Employment Responsibilities and Rights | When completing this compnent you will learn how te law affects both employers and employees and how laws specific to the industry you work in affect you |
It is important that the level you choose is appropriate to your job role.
For example...
- If you have just left school and have no other experience in your chosen subject, or, if you hold a junior position at work, then the Apprenticeship is the right level for you.
- If however, you are in a more senior role and have more responsibilities or knowledge of the subject, then an Advanced Apprenticeship may be what you need.
- You may not necessarily need to have other formal qualifications in order to get onto an Apprenticeship but you do need to be employed in the sector in which you wish to do your Apprenticeship.
- Apprenticeships are available to people between the ages of 16-70 and you must have lived in the UK or another EU country for at least three years and have a National Insurance number.
- Many Apprenticeships are fully funded by the Government, so the training may not cost you anything.
- If you are already employed and then start your Apprenticeship, you should continue to earn your agreed salary.
- Apprentices who are aged 16-18, or are in the first year of an Apprenticeship must be paid at least the Apprentice National Minimum Wage (NMW), of £2.50 per hour. Once an Apprentice reaches 19 and has completed the first year of their apprenticeship, they are eligible for the full NMW. However, as an Apprentice’s skills develop, most employers will increase their wages.
- On average, apprentices earn about £170 per week.
© 2011 Heathercroft Training Academy