Contrary to popular belief, an apprenticeship is far removed from the old stereotype of an oil-drenched mechanic in a draughty garage. Today’s apprenticeships provide you with a wage and free training, both in the workplace and through day release at college or university, to help you build a career in almost any line of work.
Different levels of apprenticeship are open to anyone living in England aged 16 or over, covering some 1,500 occupations in 170 industries, according to government figures. They range from IT, media and engineering through to the NHS, education and professional services, such as lawyers and accountants. They will take one to five years to complete.
Recent reforms that introduced employer-designed standards to apprenticeship delivery mean you can expect close mentoring, at least 20% time off to study, more stringent testing and general all-round support from workplace colleagues. The changes, which will be introduced gradually up to 2020, are designed to simplify existing demands on apprentices and expand the scheme into previously untouched sectors.
When your employer judges that you are at the required standard, they will “sign you off” to be independently assessed and graded. After completion, they will generally offer you a full-time job. Your apprenticeship will show you are fully competent in a stated role and that you match an easy-to-read standard devised by employers in your sector. Until 2020, some apprenticeships will continue to operate under the old-style “framework” system, encompassing intermediate, advanced and higher-level apprenticeships.
Salaries start at £3.40 an hour, rising to £3.50 as of April 2017, although many are considerably higher depending on location, industry and skill level. Some higher-level apprentices can earn as much as £300-£500 a week.
To apply, talk to a careers adviser, check out the government’s getingofar.gov.uk website, or contact an employer direct.
