An Apprenticeship allows you to study for a qualification at the same time as working. You’ll divide your time between the workplace and college. In some cases, you may not need to attend college at all.

There are lots of benefits to doing an Apprenticeship. You’ll:

• Earn a salary, plus receive paid holidays
• Learn in a hands-on practical way
• Get paid while attending college
• Receive training and gain qualifications at no cost to you
• Develop the skills you need for a range of exciting careers
• Have the opportunity to progress to degree level
• Boost your future earnings potential

To start an Apprenticeship you must be aged 16 or over and not in full time education.

We offer different level Apprenticeships and the qualifications you’ll need vary depending on the level you choose.

• Level 2 Intermediate Apprenticeship (equivalent to five GCSEs grade 9-4 or A*-C) This level provides the skills and qualifications needed for your chosen career and allow entry (if desired) to an Advanced Apprenticeship. To be accepted, applicants need to be enthusiastic, keen to learn and have a reasonable standard of education.
• Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship (equivalent to two A-Levels) To start at this level, you should have five GCSEs, grade 9-4 or A*-C or have completed an Intermediate Apprenticeship. This will provide the skills and qualifications needed for your career and allow entry (if desired) to a Higher Apprenticeship or Degree level qualification.
• Level 4-5 Higher Apprenticeship (equivalent to a Foundation Degree, Higher National Certificate or Higher National Diploma) To start at this level, you should have a Level 3 qualification (A-Levels, Advanced Diploma or International Baccalaureate) or have completed an Advanced Apprenticeship.

Apprenticeship training can take between one and four years to complete, but the length of an Apprenticeship does often depend on its level, the industry and the skills you already have.

Your salary will depend on the industry and type of Apprenticeship you choose. Visit the gov.uk website to learn more about the current minimum wage for Apprentices aged 16-18.

If you’re aged 19 or over and have completed the first year of your Apprenticeship, you’re entitled to the national minimum wage for your age. Find out more on the gov.uk website.

There are two ways to apply to become an Apprentice.

1. You can browse the Apprenticeships we offer at Coventry College and register your interest with us. Then you can either find your own employer, or the College can either help match you with any current employer vacancies we have or work to find you a suitable employer.
2. Alternatively, take a look at our current Apprenticeship vacancies. You can apply for a vacancy in a similar way you would to applying for a job. If your application is successful, we’ll enrol you onto an Apprenticeship programme.

Competition is often strong for vacancies so applicants will need to show determination, aptitude and commitment. To increase your chances of success, you could:

• Phone, email or walk in to give in a copy of your CV to businesses to show interest. Many companies will get a lot of CVs emailed to them, so calling ahead and visiting the company may increase your chances of being successful. Approaching companies in a professional manner creates a good first impression.
• Offer to do work experience in your chosen industry. This gives the employer a chance to see you working, whilst you gain valuable experience to add to your CV.

Book a place at one of our Open Events. You’ll be able to speak to our friendly staff about our Apprenticeships and apply on the night.

We also offer dedicated Apprenticeship Advice Sessions where you can ask any questions and find out more information. Book a place at one of our Apprenticeship Advice Sessions.

The gov.uk website also has lots of useful information.

You can also speak to your school Careers Advisor or contact the National Careers Service.

Starting an Apprenticeship could affect your family’s benefits. It’s counted as full time, paid employment as part of the household income.

If you choose an Apprenticeship and your family claims benefits your parents/carers will no longer be able to claim Family Allowance if you are aged 19 or under.

As an Apprentice you’ll also have to pay for your own eye tests, prescriptions and glasses although everyone under 18 still gets free dental treatment.

There is support however for Apprentices and their families who’re on a low income.

• The NHS Low Income Scheme
• Apprentices NUS Discount Card