What is an apprenticeship?

Apprenticeships are a combination of work-based training and college education, giving you the opportunity to earn while you learn. Over the course of an apprenticeship, you will work to achieve NVQs/SVQs, Key Skills/Core Skills and a Technical Certificate.

If you join an Apprenticeship programme, you will be employed with a wage. An Apprenticeship takes up to 24 months to complete and requires the achievement of NVQ level 2, a technical certificate level 2 and the appropriate key skills. You will develop excellent practical and technical skills, and gain valuable work experience. You also have the opportunity to progress to an Advanced Apprenticeship.

When you have completed your apprenticeship you will be a craftsperson with the necessary skills to start a career in your chosen trade.

What qualifications do I need?

In England and Wales, applicants should have, or expect to achieve GCSE grades A-C in Maths, English language or literature and a science resistant materials technology or equivalent to GCSE or GNVQ intermediate. For engineer apprenticeships, applicants will also require an additional GCSE or GNVQ intermediate.