Apprenticeship FAQs
A quick overview of what happens next
How do I find an apprenticeship?Try and search company/employers websites or the National Apprenticeship Service website has lists of current available apprenticeships. You could even approach a company directly if there was a certain employer you would like to work for and train with. Use this search on the government website to browse which apprenticeships are available based on your interests and location, or look on the WCG Apprentice vacancies page.
Do apprenticeships have entry requirements?Many people start on a Level 2 apprenticeship and work their way up to a higher or degree apprenticeship. Many employers and training providers will ask for a certain level of numeracy and literacy and may require you to have qualifications or certain experience as part of the entry criteria. Typically for a Level 2 the entry requirements are GCSE grade 3 in maths and English, if you are doing a Level 3 apprenticeship the entry requirements are GCSE grade 4 in maths and English.
How long does an apprenticeship take to complete?Apprenticeships take between one and four years to complete depending on the level being undertaken. A Level 2 apprenticeship takes on average 15 months to complete, Level 3 can typically take between 2 – 4 years, whereas a Level 6 or 7 degree apprenticeship can take between three and four years to complete.
What might a typical week be like as an apprentice?Usually you would be working within a company four days a week doing the job and developing your skills. You’d then study at college one day a week, learning both academic and hands-on skills. You would be assigned an apprenticeship coordinator who would keep an eye on you and check that everything was going well.
How much do you get paid as an apprentice?Don’t expect to start earning big money as soon as you start your training. The current national minimum wage for an apprentice under the age of 19 or in your first year of your apprenticeship is £7.55. After the age of 19, or 18 if you have completed your first year of your apprenticeship, you will be entitled to the working National Minimum Wage.
When do apprenticeships start?Many apprenticeships will begin in September, however there is no set time of year for them to start, so it’s important to keep an eye out all year round. Like jobs, apprenticeships depend on when an opportunity becomes available.
Would I be an employee during my apprenticeship?Yes, as an apprentice you have the same employment rights as a member of staff. The only difference is you will have a contractual end date to your employment, when your training programme ends.
Is there a minimum number of hours I must work as an apprentice?You should be required to work a 30 hour minimum week and no more than 40 hours. Time spent off the job at college or in training is also included in this.
Does an apprenticeship guarantee me a job at the end?A high percentage of apprentices are taken on by their employers once they’ve finished, but doing an apprenticeship doesn’t mean the company has to take you on. And even if they don’t, you’ll go on to find work elsewhere as you’ll have an accredited qualification and plenty of experience when you finish.
Can apprentices get student discounts?Apprentices are neither employees nor students. You will not qualify for student loans, subsidised travel, or student bank accounts since you are not students. However, NUS do offer an NUS Apprentice extra discount card to offer apprentices many of the same discounts and benefits as other students.