An Apprenticeship is a paid training programme which combines training (20%) with working on the job. Often seen as an alternative to college or university as you can earn equivalent qualifications as well as real work experience. You will need an employer to support you by providing relevant employment through the duration of your apprenticeship. Apprenticeships are assessed through demonstration of your ability to apply your learning so are more likely to involve examples than exams.
You can apply for an apprenticeship while you’re still at school. To start one, you’ll need to be:
- 16 or over by the end of the summer holidays
- living in England
- not in full-time education
Background reading
- https://www.gov.uk/apprenticeships-guide
- “A Guide to Apprenticeships“, PDF document
- https://www.prospects.ac.uk/jobs-and-work-experience/apprenticeships/what-is-an-apprenticeship
- https://www.ucas.com/understanding-apprenticeships
- “The A to Z of Apprenticeships“, PDF document
How do I find an apprenticeship?
Careers guidance at your school, college or university can be a great place to find out about relevant apprenticeship opportunities to apply for. The government also has a dedicated “Find an apprenticeship” service and many recruitment services, such as Multiverse, will focus on recruiting apprentices. If there is an organisation that you really want to work for be sure to check out their careers page or reach out to their recruitment team.
- https://www.gov.uk/apply-apprenticeship
- “The Essential Guide to Apprenticeship Support“, published by the Government
- https://amazingapprenticeships.com/vacancies/
- https://www.multiverse.io/en-GB/young-adults
- https://www.getmyfirstjob.co.uk/
- https://www.findapprenticeships.co.uk/
Resources
A quick search on the internet should give you more information about apprenticeships and where to find them. Another good way to find out more is to attend careers events in your area. Keep an eye out for online careers events too and don’t be afraid to use professional platforms like LinkedIn or Glassdoor to research companies offering relevant opportunities.
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Inspiring potential apprentices and employers to Fire It Up with apprenticeships.