Apprenticeships - 12/13

Our apprenticeships are administered by either Work-Based Learning or Avon Vale Training, both part of Wiltshire Enterprise at Wiltshire College.

What is an Apprenticeship?

Apprentices learn on the job, building up knowledge and skills, gaining qualifications and earning money at the same time. They are a national training initiative, offering the best of the traditional route together with the advantages of vocational qualifications.

They are designed to ensure that Apprentices gain the skills and recognition needed in today's job market. They are primarily aimed at young adults already in employment - though more and more employers are seeking to recruit new Apprentices to their staff.

How does an Apprenticeship work?

Most of your training will be in your workplace. You'll have regular visits from your assessor/training co-ordinator who will help you with all aspects of your apprenticeship.
You may have to attend College regularly to complete essential knowledge elements of your chosen occupation and Functional/ Key Skills.  For some occupations you will be able to complete some practical work in the College workshops that you are unable to cover in your workplace.

Am I eligible for an Apprenticeship?

You need to be living in England and not taking part in full-time education, and there may be specific entry requirements for Apprenticeships depending on the occupational sector.  For example, minimum grades in certain GCSEs or entry tests.

Apprenticeships are open to all age groups above 16 years-old whether you are just leaving school, have been working for years or are seeking to start a new career.   Degree Graduates are not eligible for funding, but can undertake an Apprenticeship if they or their employer is willing to pay the full cost.

Competition for places with employers can be fierce, so you will need to show that you are committed, and aware of your responsibilities to both yourself and the company who would employ you.

You also need to be happy to work as both part of a team and individually, and be able to use your own initiative.

Are there different types of Apprenticeship?

All Apprenticeships lead to both knowledge and competence qualifications, together with Functional Skills (core elements of English and maths that will provide you with the skills and abilities you need to operate effectively at work).  In addition you will be assessed for Personal Learning and Thinking Skills, and learn about Employee Rights and Responsibilities.

There are 3 different levels:

Intermediate Apprenticeship

You'll develop technical skills and gain valuable practical experience in your new occupation whilst working towards Level 2 vocational qualifications and Level 1or 2 Functional Skills.   There is also the opportunity to progress to an Advanced Apprenticeship.

Advanced Apprenticeship

As an Advanced Apprentice you will be in full-time employment with an appropriate wage, aiming for a technical, supervisory or junior management role. The training usually lasts between 1and 3 years and leads to Level 3 qualifications and Level 2 Functional Skills.  For some, an Advanced Apprenticeship is a stepping stone to a Higher Apprenticeship, Diploma or degree level studies.

Higher Apprenticeship

Higher Apprenticeships are increasingly being seen as an alternative to Higher National Diplomas and some University Courses. You will continue in your vocational training at Level 4 both in the classroom and in the workplace. The training will last for approximately 12 months as you will already have vocational qualifications at level 3 and Functional Skills at level 2.

What qualifications do I get when I've finished my Apprenticeship?

You'll get a package of qualifications which have been tailored to your chosen career: a Competence qualification (such as an NVQ Diploma), a Knowledge qualification (eg BTEC National Diploma, City and Guilds Certificate), and Functional Skills.    In addition to these formal qualifications you will have a good knowledge of Employee Rights and Responsibilities, and have evidenced a good level of Personal Learning and Thinking Skills.

How do Apprenticeships relate to other qualifications?

There are 5 levels of qualifications:
Level 1 is equivalent to 5 GCSEs at grades D-G
Level 2 is equivalent to 5 GCSEs at grades A-C
Level 3 is equivalent to 2 A-levels/1 vocational A-level
Level 4/5 is equivalent to HNC, HND and degree level

How much do I get paid?

The absolute minimum wage for an Apprentice is £2.65 per hour (from 1st October 2012), or National Minimum Wage after the first year of training if you are 19 or over.   However many employers pay more and will reward you with pay increases as you progress.

Do I get holidays?

All Apprentices are employed and therefore entitled to those holidays provided by their terms of employment.   However, the Working Time Directive specifies the amount of paid holiday per year as a minimum for employees.

How Do I Apply?

Full details are available here