Apprenticeship; 'There is a wide range of subjects'
Tuesday, 3 July 2007
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Apprentices are in regular contact with their employer, and most of the assessment will come through day-to-day conversation
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Get an overview of how apprenticeships work.
Entry requirements
Applying for an apprenticeship is much the same as applying for a job, and as such entry requirements will vary for individual employers. Being keen, motivated and knowledgeable about the sector you are applying for is a must of course, but what is actually required of you will differ. Check out the Web Watch box to find out where you can access the necessary information.
Content
You can do an apprenticeship in a wide range of subjects, including accountancy, football and engineering. There is no set time to complete an apprenticeship as they vary widely in content and size. The length of time taken will depend on the ability of the individual apprentice and the employer's requirements. An apprenticeship will usually take anything from 12 to 24 months so a high level of commitment is needed on the apprentice's part to see it through.
Assessment
The training offers a structured route to a career path, with learning constantly monitored and the performance of the apprentice checked regularly to ensure they are getting the most out their training. Apprentices are obviously in regular contact with their employer, and as a result a lot of assessment will come verbally through day-to-day conversation. Self-assessment is a key part of many programmes too, and both written and practical tests feature regularly.
What next?
The advantages of going straight into paid work in the form of an apprenticeship mean that you can gain a number of important qualifications. These include an appropriate National Vocational Qualification (NVQ) at either Level 2 or Level 3, Key Skills qualifications (which could include working in teams, problem-solving or using new technology) and a technical certificate such as a BTEC or City & Guilds.
These qualifications, combined with the work experience an apprentice picks up, provides a big edge in the job market. When you complete an apprenticeship you'll be able to show an employer that you have skills, qualifications and dedication. This also increases your chances of getting a good salary and being promoted in the longer term.
Apprenticeships can also give you the opportunity to progress on to higher education either part-time or full-time with your employer's help and support.
By Natasha Vickers
Lucy Wilkins, 24, is a business administration apprentice
I really feel that an apprenticeship is the best thing you can do you are earning a wage and learning skills at the same time. To anyone else considering starting an apprenticeship, I'd say go for it!
DID YOU KNOW?
Famous chef Jamie Oliver started his career as an apprentice, and now he is thought to be worth around £25m! When Jamie turned 16, he decided to receive formal culinary training and entered Westminster Catering College; afterwards he began his apprenticeship under some of the best chefs in London, including Antonio Carluccio. Oliver is one of the many examples of people who have benefited from training through an apprenticeship.
WEB WATCH
Learning and Skills Council
Information about the different sectors in which you can undertake an apprenticeship
Connexions direct
Advice for 13- to 19-year-olds on making the right choices for you
Qualifications and Curriculum Authority
More information on NVQs
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