Apprenticeships
Apprenticeships

If you are aged 16-24 and are leaving, or have left, full time education an apprenticeship could be for you. There are many different occupations to chose from such as retail, motor mechanics, catering, engineering, business administration and many others. If you are already at work then you may still be able to work towards an Apprenticeship. Contact Connexions for further advice.

Apprenticeships are designed to give you the skills and experience you need to climb your chosen career ladder. Apprenticeships are divided into two levels:

• Apprenticeship; and
• Advanced Apprenticeship.

The Apprenticeship training includes a National Vocational Qualification (NVQ). An NVQ shows that you can do a specific job to industry standards. An NVQ level 2 is broadly comparable to GCSE and GNVQ intermediate standard and an NVQ level 3 is comparable to A level or GNVQ advanced level. In addition to an NVQ you will gain key skills that will be useful in employment. these include team working, customer care, problem solving, communications and IT . Further more you may also study for a Technical Certificate which will provide you with further knowledge and understanding of your job. You can progress from an Apprenticeship to an Advanced Apprenticeship.

Once you have started work as an Apprentice your employer will pay your wage and give you on the job training. You will also spend some time with a learning provider gaining key skills and a Technical Certificate. You are guaranteed a basic wage or training allowance of at least £80 a week but you may well receive more depending upon your employer.

For further local information speak to a Connexions Personal Adviser or look at the vacancy section of this website.

You can also apply direct to local training providers - log on to www.xplore.uk.com choose "Course Search" and enter "Apprenticeship" in the qualification field.

More detailed information about Apprenticeships can be found at www.apprenticeships.org.uk