Apprenticeships Explained
Apprenticeships are a great way to gain a nationally recognised qualification while gaining valuable experience in the workplace.
Apprenticeships are not just for school leavers or people looking for their first job. If you are already working and want to gain further qualifications or try something new, an apprenticeship is an alternative route.
You will work alongside experienced existing colleagues to learn new skills “on the job”. You will have a designated Development Coach who will assess your skills, knowledge and competence of your new skills. Development Coaches will hold professional status in their vocational area with a wealth of experience and knowledge.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I become an apprentice?
Anyone can be an apprentice, as long as you are 16 years old or over, have UK residency, been in the UK for 3 years or more and are not in full time education. GCSEs are desirable, they are not essential as all apprenticeships offer up to Level 2 Functional Skills in English and Maths.
In addition, you will hold a contract of employment with your employer. Having an interest in your apprenticeship choice will go along way to achieving your qualification.
How much will I get paid?
There is no set rate of pay for apprentices, with wages varying according to the employer, but this wage will not be below the national apprenticeship wage. You will also benefit from at least 20 days of paid holiday per year, plus bank holidays.
Where will I study?
Apprenticeships are designed as work-based learning. You will have a structured programme relevant to the job you’re doing and will give you the skills you need to do it well. Most of your learning will be ‘on the job’ with a Coach from Lewtay Training visiting your workplace to assess the practical skills you have learnt. Your study will also require 20% of your time to be “Off Job Training”. This is paid time for studying/training during your apprenticeship.
What are the career options?
Apprenticeships offer a lot of choices in your career and, because they give you the skills which employers want, they can also be incredibly rewarding. Successful completion of an intermediate and advanced apprenticeship will give you valuable credits which can be used against future HNC, foundation degree or honours degree programmes.