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An apprenticeship combines learning and working. Apprenticeships offer structured courses of study that lead to qualifications whilst actually working and being paid to do a job. Anyone aged 16 or over can apply for an apprenticeship. They last a minimum of 12 months to 4 years, and are available in 170 industries. Apprenticeships can lead on to Higher Education or full-time employment.
Types of apprenticeship:
- Intermediate – equivalent to 5 GCSE passes
- Advanced – equivalent to 2 A-levels
- Higher – can lead to NVQ level 4 or above, or to a foundation degree.
A traineeship is a course that combines learning and work experience. Traineeships can last between 6 weeks and 6 months. They’re a great way to build up skills and confidence.
Anyone who is aged 16-24 and qualified below level 3 can apply. Traineeships can lead to apprenticeships, Further Education or employment. You can ask your local Job Centre to learn more about traineeships.
What is the apprenticeship levy?
The apprenticeship levy will change the way that employers and the government fund apprenticeship training in the UK. It’s being brought in to promote apprenticeships with the aim of having three million people start apprenticeships between now and 2020.
From April 2017 employers with a pay bill over £3m per year will be required to pay 0.5% of that into the new apprenticeship levy. For example, if an employer has a pay bill of £5m, it will pay £25,000. The government will offset levy payments with a contribution of £15,000 and is also matching employers’ payments with a 10% top up for every £1 paid in.
TARGETcareers takes a look at the new apprenticeship levy to see what changes are being made to the current system, how employers are reacting and what this means for apprenticeships and graduate programmes.
Useful apprenticeship information:
The National Apprenticeship Show (featured on BBC News)
Career Pilot
Get In Go Far
‘Find an apprenticeship’ (to create an account and search for live apprenticeships)