Interested in an apprenticeship? Find out the key info about apprenticeships, including what they are, how they work, and more.

WHAT IS AN APPRENTICESHIP?

Apprenticeships are an exciting option - you get hands-on training and also the chance to put your skills into practice.

Apprenticeships are real jobs – with plenty of hands-on experience, a salary and the chance to gain your qualifications – all while getting that real-world work experience you’ll need for your next step. An apprenticeship is one way to gain practical work experience, with the option to learn while you earn. 80% of your time will be spent in the workplace and 20% of your time in training.

The idea is to boost your skills in a real life environment whilst gaining a nationally recognised qualification at the same time. You’ll learn in either a college, university, or through an external training provider to help boost your skills. Ultimately, you’ll be working in a real job, with an employment contract and holiday allowance, and be getting paid. By the end of an apprenticeship, you'll have the right skills and knowledge - along with a qualification - needed for your chosen career.

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF AN APPRENTICESHIP?

• Learning and training for a specific job
• Earning a salary
• Get hands-on experience in a real job
• Training in the skills employers want
• 20% of your time is set aside for learning
• Learning at a pace suited to you with the support of a mentor
• Gain official certification of skills equivalent to qualifications ranging from Level 2 up to degree level
• Paid holidays
• Excellent progression opportunities
• Increased future earning potential & better long term salary prospects

WHO CAN DO AN APPRENTICESHIP?

Anyone in England aged 16 years old and above. From school leavers, to people who would like to upskill in their current roles and those who would like a complete career change - there is no upper age limit. In most cases there are no formal qualifications needed to do an apprenticeship however, some employers and training providers may ask for GCSEs (A-C) in English, maths and science for higher level apprenticeships.

HOW MUCH WILL YOU EARN?

What you earn will depend on the industry, location and type of apprenticeship you choose. If you are aged 16 to 18 or in the first year of your apprenticeship, you’re entitled to the apprentice rate. If you are 19 or over and have completed the first year of your apprenticeship, you’re entitled to the National Minimum Wage. All apprentices are currently entitled to a minimum of £4.81 per hour, which will rise to £5.28 in April 2023. However, lots of companies will pay more than the minimum rate. There are also different rates of pay depending on your age, what year of your apprenticeship you’re in and the level of responsibilities and education you take on.

WHAT LEVELS OF APPRENTICESHIPS ARE AVAILABLE?

Each apprenticeship has a level and an equivalent education level. You can start an apprenticeship at any level. At the end of your apprenticeship, you’ll achieve the equivalent education level. For example, if you complete a level 3 apprenticeship, you’ll achieve the equivalent of an A Level.

There are four different levels of apprenticeships. These are…

Intermediate: Level 2
Advanced: Level 3
Higher: Level 4 or 5
Degree: Level 6 or 7

HOW LONG DOES AN APPRENTICESHIP LAST?

It can take between one and six years to complete an apprenticeship depending on which one you choose, what level it is, your previous experience and the industry sector. As a guide, an Intermediate Level 2 apprenticeship usually takes around 12 to 18 months and an advanced Level 3 apprenticeship around 24 months.

WHAT DO YOU DO WHEN YOU HAVE FINISHED?

It is up to you what you do when you have finished your apprenticeship. Research has shown that apprenticeships boost productively, retention and overall business performance, so more and more employers are now looking to grow their businesses both through taking on apprentices and hiring former apprentices. Plus, over 90% of apprentices stay in employment after their course ends. That’s a great statistic and shows how valued their qualifications and experience are. Alternatively, you may also decide to apply for university.

HOW DO YOU APPLY?

Applying for an apprenticeship is just like applying for a job, which means you will have to go through an application process. Don’t worry though, we have an Apprenticeship Team on hand ready to help!

For more information about Apprenticeships, to search for a vacancy or to speak to someone from Hull College Apprenticeships for any further help or advice, you can email us at apprenticeships@hull-college.ac.uk or give us a ring on 0300 3302010.