Post-16 education, training and employment

Apprenticeships

An apprenticeship is a real job with training.

It means people can earn while they learn, and work towards recognised qualifications.

Training normally takes place between a workplace and the college.

In some cases, all training is provided in the workplace by visiting tutors.

Apprenticeships take between 1 to 5 years to complete.

Apprentices will:

  • work alongside experienced staff
  • gain job specific skills
  • be given time to study related to your role (equivalent of 1 day per week)
  • earn a wage in accordance with government guidelines

Types of apprenticeship

There are 4 types / levels available for over 1500 job roles.

  • Intermediate (Level 2)
  • Advanced (Level 3)
  • Higher (Level 4 and above)
  • Degree (Level 6 to7)

See what qualification levels mean.


Entry requirements

As apprenticeships are jobs, it is up to the employer to decide who they will employ and their entry requirements.

An intermediate apprenticeship will usually need English and Maths equivalent of at least level 1, and be studying for level 2 (see what qualification levels mean).

If the person has an Education, Health and Care Plan or has had one in the past, there may be flexibility around the English and Math requirements. 

Speak with the employer or training provider to discuss what support and reasonable adjustments may be available.

Traineeships

Traineeships can help people prepare for an apprenticeship, see GOV.UK: Traineeships.


More information

For more information, see UCAS: Apprenticeships.