Apprenticeships
What is an Apprenticeship?
Level 2 and Advanced Apprenticeships are designed for people aged 16+. Most places are for young people aged 16-18, although we have limited places for young people aged 19 to 24.
Apprenticeships can be undertaken in a number of vocational areas and have a set time frame for achievement. This time-frame differs depending on the type of apprenticeship you undertake. For example, if you are undertaking an Apprenticeship at Level 2 in Administration, you will have one year to achieve your qualification.
For an Advanced Apprenticeship in Engineering you will have three years to achieve. The time frame for your chosen apprenticeship will be discussed when your individual learner plan is agreed. You will normally spend four days a week with your employer and attend college one day a week.
Apprenticeship at Level 2
The main part of your training will be to gain a National Vocational Qualification (NVQ) at level 2, relevent Technical Certificate and Key Skills.
NVQ's are practical based qualifications. You have to demonstrate your competence across a wide range of work tasks; this gives you a broad understanding of your chosen work area and the skills needed for it.
Successful achievement of an Apprenticeship at Level 2 can be a stepping stone towards an Advanced Apprenticeship.
Advanced Apprenticeship (Level 3)
The main part of this qualification will be to gain an NVQ at level 3, a relevent technical certificate and Key Skills.
At level 3 you will be expected to undertake a variety of complex and non-routine activities. Some advanced apprenticeship programmes will require you to learn skills in order to supervise others.
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Choosing the right level
The right starting point for your training will depend upon a number of things.
When you see us initially, we will assess your literacy and numeracy skills, look at your Personal Progress File.
We will then give you a personal interview to talk about your job preferences, any work experience that you might have and your general academic ability. This helps us make a decision about whether a Level 2, or an Advanced Apprenticeship will be the most suitable for you. If you already have a job, this too will influence the decision.
Everything will be discussed fully with you and you will be able to ask any questions you might have.
Key Skills
In both the Level 2 and Advanced Apprenticeships you will develop an understanding of key skills. These are fundamental to everyday life and are skills that employers require. They will be the key to your success as an apprentice.
Key skills that could be included in your apprenticeship framework are:
- Application of Number
- Communication
- Information Technology
- Improving own Learning
- Working with Others
Employment
Employers are committed to employing you throughout your apprenticeship training and afterwards. They have to pay you a reasonable wage, which is a minimum of £95 a week whilst you train.
The National Minimum Wage does not apply to young people aged 16-18 years old. If you are 18 when you start training, then you will have to be on an apprenticeship programme for a year before the National Minimum Wage will apply and then it will be at a special rate.
Expectations
You will be expected to:
- Work to the best of your ability
- Be punctual at work and at college
- Regularly attend work and college
- Keep records of the work you do
- achieve the tasks and targets set for you
An apprenticeship is a contract between yourself, your employer, the College and the LSC (Learning and Skills Council).
We will provide you with:
A personal Training and Placement Advisor to support you
Occupationally qualified tutors and assessors to deliver your training
Regular work-based assessment
Regular progress reviews with our staff and your employer
We will help you to:
- Write a C.V
- Obtain job search information
- Find a suitable job with an approved employer
- Achieve your training plan and apprenticeship qualifications
- Start to build a successful career in your chosen occupation
How To Start
Please call our experienced Apprenticeship Centre staff. They will be happy to help you.