Apprenticeships are a type of work-based training - it is a means of working and getting training in the workplace. Places can be arranged through a work-based training provider and will involve developing a training plan for you. This plan will set out the training you need to do and the qualifications you will achieve. Check with your your Connexions Personal Adviser ort the National Apprenticeship Service what may be available in the Tameside area.
There are two levels of Apprenticeship:-
Foundation Apprenticeships - usually lasting at least 12 months, involving training to NVQ Level 2
Advanced Apprenticeships - involving training to NVQ Level 3
To become an apprentice you need to be over 16 years of age and be able to complete your training before your 25th birthday. You need to be enthusiastic and willing to learn and have the ability to achieve NVQ level 2 or 3. To access an Apprenticeship formal qualifications are not always necessary - practical skills count, not just prior academic achievement.
However, for an Advanced Apprenticeship you would be expected to have some GCSE passes or an NVQ level 2. You will be interviewed by your prospective employer and offered a wage according to your age and experience.
Employers are looking for young people who are skilled and qualified, especially those who have workplace experience. Achieving an Apprenticeship will enable you to meet these expectations and open up real prospects in the jobs market. Advanced Apprenticeships can also lead to higher education.
If you think this might be your best option, talk to your Connexions Personal Adviser.
How do apprenticeships work?
As employees, apprentices work alongside experienced staff to gain job-specific skills. Off-the-job, usually on a day release basis, apprentices receive training with a local training provider such as a college.
What do I get out of it?
There are lots of benefits to doing an Apprenticeship.
Doing an Apprenticeship means you can earn while you learn and learn in a way that is best suited to you – learning through hands on experience on the job.
Earnings
Research shows that apprentices earn, on average, over £100,000 more throughout their lifetime than other employees. Your career doesn’t have to stop at the Advanced Apprenticeship, if you want to go on to University you will find many institutes of Higher Education value your skills and knowledge and will happily offer you a place on a Foundation Degree or other higher level qualifications.
Support during training
Your employer or training provider will make sure you have a mentor. Their job is to ensure that your training fits your personal requirements, offers the skills needed for the job and satisfies national standards. They will also be there to help you through any difficult times.
Prospects
Apprenticeships can be demanding but they are very rewarding. Because Apprenticeships train you in the skills employers want, they give you choices in your career. When you’ve finished you can carry on working, maybe get promoted or go on to higher education in a college or university.
A choice of industries and employers
Apprenticeships have been developed by a wide range of industry sectors and are available with different types of employers from large national companies such as British Gas, BMW and Orange to smaller local companies.
There are now over 180 career choices in 80 different industry sectors. The right one for you will depend on your interests, your experience and the opportunities in your area. However, all Apprenticeships include the following elements:
· An appropriate work-based qualification such as a National Vocational Qualification (NVQ) at either Level 2 or Level 3;
· Key Skills qualifications, e.g. working in teams, problem-solving, communication and using new technology;
· A technical qualification such as a BTEC or City & Guilds (relevant to the specific Apprenticeship);
· Other qualifications or requirements as specified by the particular occupation.
Qualifications
You’ll get a package of qualifications when you finish your Apprenticeship which will be recognised by any employer, anywhere in the country. That means you can change jobs and take your skills and qualifications with you. Your performance and knowledge are assessed on the job as you reach different levels. These assessments count towards your final qualification.
Depending on the Apprenticeship you choose, you may also study for a Technical Certificate which will give you further knowledge and understanding of your job. This might be a BTEC National Diploma or a City & Guilds Progression Award. You’ll also learn about communications and application of numbers. These important transferable skills will help you in any job and make you more employable whatever career you choose to follow.