What is an Apprenticeship?

An apprenticeship allows you to learn certain skills and knowledge while working in employment. Most of your learning takes place on the job, but you will complete lessons and assessments to earn a qualification. Usually, apprentices work towards their desired apprenticeship standard alongside functional skills qualifications in English and Maths.

What makes apprenticeships different from other qualifications is that you will spend 80% on the job and 20% in the classroom. You will also earn a wage.

A Level 3 apprenticeship is equivalent to an A Level or BTEC qualification, whereas a Level 5 apprenticeship is equivalent to a Foundation Degree.

What types of apprenticeships are there?

Apprenticeships can be offered in almost every profession. At The Source, we offer Intermediate (Level 2), Advanced (Level 3) and Higher (Level 4/5) apprenticeships.

If you are 16 and leaving school, you would typically begin your studies on an Intermediate apprenticeship and progress to an Advanced apprenticeship. If you have some experience or have higher qualifications, such as an A Level, you can enrol on an Advanced or Higher apprenticeship.

Once you have completed a Higher apprenticeship, you can go onto study a degree level apprenticeship. These apprenticeships are the equivalent to an Honours Degree.

How long do apprenticeships last?

The length of an apprenticeship depends on the level of study, but most take between 12 - 18 months to complete. You will spend most of your time at your place of employment, doing your job. There will be some days when you will be required to attend classes, such as functional skills, but these will be agreed with you and your employer when you begin your apprenticeship.

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How Will I Be Paid?

You will be paid at least the minimum wage rate for apprentices for your age, however many employers pay more than this. If you’re over age 19 after your first year of study, this will increase to the national minimum wage of your age or more.

You will be paid for the hours that you work, as well as any time spent on training with us. You will also get at least 20 days paid holiday a year, plus bank holidays.

If you are already in employment and looking to upskill, you will be paid your current salary when you begin your apprenticeship.

Debt Free!

The cost of your training is covered by the Government and/or your employer, so you will not be required to take out any student loans in order to fund your studies.

Student Discount

Although you’re in employment as an apprentice you’re still eligible to sign up and buy an NUS student card so that you can get discount at many different retailers.

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How Can I Progress?

Achieve More

You will gain a nationally recognised qualification. You will also develop sector specific work skills and receive support to complete English and maths functional skills (some students will be exempt from this depending on previous qualifications).

Boost Your CV

While on an apprenticeship, you will gain essential experience and skills that employers want to see on your CV. This highly valued experience can put you ahead of others and help when you decide to develop your career further.

Progress Further

When you complete your apprenticeship there are many progression opportunities, from moving onto a higher level apprenticeship, staying in employment with your current employer or progressing on to a different role.

Apply now to begin your apprenticeship journey >>>

Already an Apprentice?

Contact our Apprenticeships Team to discuss your progression opportunities >>>