Parents/carers guide to apprenticeships
What is an apprenticeship?
An apprenticeship is a real job with training which would allow your young learner to earn while they learn, whilst gaining a nationally recognised qualification. Apprenticeships take between one and five years to compete and cover a wide range of industries, from accounting to engineering.
All apprenticeships will include elements of on-the-job and off-the-job training, leading to industry recognised standards or qualifications. Some apprenticeships will require an assessment at the end of the programme to assess the apprentice’s ability and competence in their job role. Apprenticeships are now available up to degree level and beyond.
Apprenticeships are available to anyone over the age of 16, living in England. There are different entry requirements depending on the sector and job.
Apprenticeship levels:
Intermediate (Level 2) – Equivalent to 5 GCSE passes
Advanced (Level 3) – Equivalent to 2 A Level passes
Higher (Level 4 & 5) – Equivalent to foundation degree
Degree (Level 6 & 7) – Equivalent to bachelor’s or master’s degree
- Earning a salary
- Training in the skills employers want
- Excellent progression opportunities, whether looking to study further or climb the ranks within the workplace
- Increased future earning potential – apprentices enjoy marked salary increases when they complete their training
- Learning at a pace suited to the individual with the support of a mentor
- Paid holiday
The current minimum wage for apprentices aged 16-18 can be found here, however many employers pay more than this. This is dependent on the sector and apprenticeship level e.g. some higher apprenticeships can pay as much as £300-£500 per week.
If the apprentice is aged 19 or over and has completed the first year of their apprenticeship, they’ll be entitled to the national minimum wage for their age.
Want to find out more?
Read more about apprenticeships here or register your interest in an apprenticeship with Coventry College.
