What are Apprenticeships?

Apprentices do real jobs for real employers. Whether you are a school or college leaver or have been in a job for a while, apprenticeships are a great way to gain new skills and knowledge, work your way up the career ladder and enjoy all the benefits of working, earning money, making new friends and enjoying new experiences.

Click here to download a Parents and Careers Guide to Apprenticeships.

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Apprenticeships combine on and off the job training – on the job an Apprentice will work with a supervisor, learning skills in the work place and working towards a work based qualification such as a National Vocational Qualification or a Diploma. Off the job, an Apprentice will spend time with Chamber Training, working towards a technical qualification such as a BTEC or City & Guilds.

Apprentices also gain key transferable skills - like working in teams, problem-solving, communication and using new technology as well as studying (in most cases) for a technical qualification, which provides further knowledge and understanding of the relevant job. The development of English, maths and ICT skills are a key aspect of an Apprenticeship and we will assess an individual’s starting point, designing a plan of learning based upon existing knowledge to help the Apprentice move to the next level.

Apprenticeships typically take between 1 - 2 years to complete, depending on the occupational area and level undertaken. There is no set time to complete an Apprenticeship, however, a minimum requirement is 12 months The length of time taken will depend on the ability of the individual apprentice and the employer's requirements. Apprenticeships can also be started at any point in the year, they are not restricted to typical school terms.

There are three levels of Apprenticeships available:

  • Intermediate Apprenticeships (level 2, equivalent to five good GCSE passes)
  • Advanced Apprenticeships (level 3, equivalent to two A level passes)
  • Higher Apprenticeships (level 4, equivalent to a HNC/HND)

The level an Apprentice starts at depends upon the job role they are entering and their GCSE grades. We will provide advice and guidance as to the most appropriate route to start at. There are full progression pathways from level 2 to level 3 and on to level 4, so that an Apprentice can progress in their job role and gain qualifications at higher levels to support their career development.

  • An appropriate work based qualification such as a National Vocational Qualification or Diploma at either Level 2, Level 3 or Level 4
  • Functional Skills qualifications such as Mathematics, English and ICT
  • Knowledge qualification such as a BTEC or City & Guilds
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There are a range of progression routes which a young person can follow, whether they take the school route, further education through a college or take the work based route through an Apprenticeship.

  • Confidential and impartial information, advice and guidance concerning career paths
  • Guidance in developing a quality Curriculum Vitae (CV)
  • Job matching service to link young people to local employers
  • Comprehensive assistance in securing employment with training
  • Referral to other agencies for specialist support where appropriate
  • An individually designed learning plan to develop your skills
  • A dedicated Training Advisor for support throughout the Apprenticeship
  • Commitment to support you until your Apprenticeship is completed
  • Online support providing you with instant contact with your Advisor
  • Provide career pathways which enable a young person to progress from level to level
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More Questions?

Still have questions, then please do not hesitate to contact us. We are here to help and provide impartial advice on apprenticeships and the next steps in career profession. 

If you'd prefer to meet one of our advisers in person, please feel free to book a place to one of our weekly advice shop slots. 

 

Advice Shop

When: Every Wednesday between 2pm and 4pm

Where: C&W Chamber Training, 123 St Nicholas Street, Coventry. CV1 4FD

Book now by calling 024 7623 1122.

 

 

Earning a salary & learning

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There are lots of benefits to doing an Apprenticeship. Doing an Apprenticeship means a young person can earn while they learn and learn in a way that is best suited to them — learning through hands on experience on the job.

Support during training

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The Apprentice will be appointed a dedicated Training Advisor who will work with them throughout the Apprenticeship and provide ongoing support. In addition, a nominated supervisor will provide day to day support in the work place.

Prospects

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Apprenticeships can be demanding but very rewarding. Because Apprenticeships train young people in the skills employers want, they give Apprentices options and choices for their careers. When they've finished, Apprentices can carry on working, get promoted or go on to higher education at university.

Real Stories, Real People

Local Health and Social Care Apprentice wins Silver Medal at The Skills Show

Congratulations to Tic Toc Nursery

Celebrating the best apprentices in the workplace