Apprenticeships
Apprenticeships are supported by Government and industry as a high-level, high-quality technical qualification which will increase the technical skills base in the labour market. An Apprenticeship is a structured programme of training which gives young people the opportunity to work for an employer, learn on the job and build up knowledge and transferable skills that will be needed throughout a working life.
There are three routes into an Apprenticeship: through the Learning and Skills Council Apprenticeships Helpline; by contacting employers directly; or by talking to the local Connexions service. There are no set rules to apply for an Apprenticeship although some employers may ask for certain qualifications. An apprentice will in most cases be classed as employed and will earn a wage of between £70 and £80 per week.
See the Learning and Skills Council's Apprenticeships for further details.
Traditionally an Apprenticeship is made up of Key Skills, NVQ and Technical Certificate. Key Skills are an important part of the Apprenticeship training and are usually completed at the same time as the NVQ. The Technical Certificate such as BTEC or City and Guilds allows the Apprentice to acquire underpinning theoretical knowledge.
The Apprenticeship family, announced in May 2004, provides Apprenticeships for ages 14 to adulthood and creates a complete vocational ladder of opportunity:
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Young Apprenticeships for 14 to 16-year-olds
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Pre-Apprenticeships — based on the popular Entry to Employment programme (at level 1)
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Apprenticeships (at level 2)
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Advanced Apprenticeships (at level 3)
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Opening up of Adult Apprenticeships by lifting the age limit of 25
Young Apprenticeships are a valuable addition to the range of vocational options at Key Stage 4. They are well suited to the needs of motivated and bright 14 to 16-year-olds to pursue industry-specific vocational programmes outside of school, in partnership with employers and involving extended work placements. This contributes to a more personalised approach to teaching and learning.
This is an opportunity for 14 to 16-year-olds to combine the practical application of skills and knowledge in a vocational context with the pursuit of qualifications that relate to particular occupational sectors.
When the young person has completed their Apprenticeship they will have good career prospects and also a route into further studies and, where appropriate, to Foundation Degrees.
Find out more about Apprenticeships here
Published: 06 November 2006
