Apprenticeships are for those who want to work and train at the same time.

You will:

· Work towards a relevant NVQ and other qualifications
· Develop your key skills
· Get practical experience of work

There are different types of Apprenticeship and where you start will depend on your employer and your experience and qualifications.

Advanced Apprenticeships
You usually need 4 GCSEs grade C or above to start an Advanced Apprenticeship. You work towards NVQ level 3 and other qualifications as part of your training.

Apprenticeships
There are no set entry requirements but most will expect you to have at least GCSEs A – D.

Most Apprenticeships are offered by employers – they decide who they are going to employ and train. The training is generally organised by a training provider who makes sure you get the right sort of training at work and at college or a training centre. 

If you don’t have an employer, some training providers can start you as a Programme Led Apprentice working on the skills and knowledge you need to be successful; you carry on looking for an employer and then join them as an Apprentice.

If you want general information about Apprenticeships click here.

To start an Apprenticeship you will need an employer willing to train you. You can apply to local employers who have the sort of vacancies you’re looking for. Some employers advertise their opportunities in the local papers, online and in schools/colleges. So don’t forget to check for vacancy information in these places from January onwards.

You should also apply to training providers. They will help you find an employer but you should also approach potential employers yourself.

Don’t just apply for one Apprenticeship – some are very popular and there are no guarantees that you will be successful straightaway.

There will be more Apprenticeships available than those listed on this site, as many firms do not yet know about vacancies for the coming year.

If you don't have an employer, some training providers can start you as a Programme Led Apprentice working on the skills and knowledge you need to be succesful; you carry on looking for an employer and then join them as an employed Apprentice.

From early 2008 a new website – Apprenticeships Online – will be available. This will have details of current Apprenticeship vacancies. Your school or college will give you the details.

What happens after I’ve applied?

You may be invited for interview and could be asked to sit an assessment test. This is to make sure you can cope with the training provided.

Some Apprenticeships are advertised for several months. You may not hear whether you’ve been successful until the summer.

Will I get an Apprenticeship straightaway?

Not necessarily. Apprenticeships places are limited and there is a large amount of competition in some occupational areas. Sometimes there are waiting lists for popular types of work/employers.

What if I need more help?

If you are not quite ready to start an Apprenticeship, your personal adviser can talk to you about alternative training opportunities.