What are Apprenticeships?
An apprenticeship is a mixture of on and off the job training that will enable you to gain a qualification relevant to your occupation of choice. The training provided is structured and designed to support you as you gain experience and knowledge which will form the basis of your career.
Who are they for?
Apprenticeships are split into three age groups: 16-18, 19-24 and 25+. You need to be living in England and not taking part in full-time education or have a degree (or equivalent). *Conditions apply
Training
Apprenticeships are designed with the support of employers in the industry, they offer a structured programme that takes you through the skills you need to progress in your job role and to achieve sustainable employment. You and your employer will be supported in order to ensure you are making progress. As an employee you will be working a minimum of 30 hours per week at your place of employment and additional training will take place outside of the workplace. The bulk of your training and learning takes place in your workplace where you will have a mentor. You will be assigned a tutor who will visit your place of work regularly to observe and assess the work based element of your qualification.
Qualifications
All Apprenticeships must include the following elements:
Note : Some Apprenticeships have one qualification which integrates both the Competence-based assessments and Knowledge-based assessments.
- Competence-based assessments which must be achieved by the Apprentice to qualify for an Apprenticeship certificate, and which is the qualification required to demonstrate competence in performing the skill, trade or occupation to which the framework relates.
- Knowledge-based assessments which is the qualification required to demonstrate achievement of the technical skills, knowledge and understanding of theoretical concepts and knowledge and understanding of the industry and its market relevant to the skill, trade or occupation to which the framework relates. Sometimes an Apprenticeship framework may have an integrated qualification which combines competence and technical knowledge elements in which each element is separately assessed.
- Functional Skills (e.g. maths, English and depending on the Apprenticeship, ICT) qualifications or a GCSE with enhanced content (e.g. maths and English). Those with GCSEs grades A*-C in English & maths will be exempt from Functional Skills, evidence is required before commencing the Apprenticeship.
What can an Apprenticeship lead to?
An Apprenticeship can provide you with a wealth of opportunities and lead in many directions. You may progress to a higher level Apprenticeship, Further Education, Higher Education or continue into more highly skilled employment. Capital Training Group has excellent success rates at 87% (13/14 Academic Year data, May 2014) for Apprentices staying in employment after completion of their programme.
Further information on Apprenticeships can be found here: www.apprenticeships.org.uk
Apprentice Benefits
NUS Apprentice Extra Card
NUS Apprentice extra provides discounts on a variety of essentials from more than 150 high street and online retail partners. Discounts are available on travel, sport, books and DVD, technology, mobile and broadband, as well as fashion, beauty and going out.
To find out more visit: www.nus.org.uk/en/nus-extra/nus-apprentice-extra-card
Apprentice Oyster Card
As an Apprentice aged 18 or under, you can get a Student Oyster Card just as you would have in school. Above 18 year old Apprentices get their own Oyster Cards, providing 30% off all travel.
To find out more visit: www.tfl.gov.uk/fares-and-payments/adult-discounts-and-concessions/apprentice-oyster-photocard