Guide for Apprentices
Earn while you learn
Get new skills. Get paid. Simple as that!
Getting paid while you learn might sound too good to be true - but as an apprentice you really do get the best of both worlds.
So if you are keen to enter the world of work but don't want to stop studying then an Apprenticeship could be the answer. They enable you to start working, earn a decent wage, all whilst learning the skills and gaining the qualifications that employers want.
So, what exactly are Apprenticeships?
As an Apprentice, you get the opportunity to gain recognised,
respected qualifications while you gain valuable work experience
all while earning money! There are different levels of
Apprenticeships available, but they all lead to NVQs, Key
Skills qualifications and, in most cases, a technical certificate
with a recognised awarding body. You will receive a separate
certificate for each of these as you achieve them, as well
as receiving a certificate once you have completed and
achieved all aspects of your Apprenticeship programme.
Who can apply?
Apprenticeships are designed
for young people; most places are for young people aged
16 - 18, although we have limited places for people aged
between 19+. (If you are over
19, your employer will need to pay a contribution towards
course costs. Please call us for details.) The entry requirements
vary by subject and level; however, you will be able to
take a skills test to assess your current skills and check
which Apprenticeship would best suit your abilities, previous
qualifications and career goals. Please contact the Apprenticeship
Centre for more information and to arrange coming in for
an informal chat about starting your Apprenticeship.
How long will it take?
The time-frame differs depending on the type of Apprenticeship
you undertake. This will be discussed at the time of writing
your Individual Learner Plan.
What hours will I work?
You will be employed normally full time (exceptions can
be made). Your working day will reflect the nature of your
chosen employer and programme.
Is it a real job?
Yes. Employers are committed
to paying and employing you for
the period of your Apprenticeship and beyond. You will be working for most of the week with your employer and you will gain valuable experience through your Apprenticeship.
What will I earn?
The national
minimum wage does not apply to young people aged
16 - 18 (while on an apprenticeship). If you are
19 when you start training then your employer does
not have to pay the minimum wage until you have
been on the programme for a year. In most cases
young people and employers negotiate a reasonable
wage (a minimum of £80 a week, £95 from August
2009). The Apprenticeship Centre can help with
this.
How is my training organised?
You, your employer and the College agree an Individual
Learning Plan detailing what you are going to achieve
and how. Your skills training will normally be
achieved by working alongside other people. You
will attend College to cover theory, practical
and key skills.
What are my progression routes?
If you are completing the Apprenticeship programme
at level 2, and your employer is willing to continue
your training at a higher level, then you will
have an opportunity to progress onto the Advanced
Apprenticeship (at Level 3).
When you finish the Advanced Apprenticeship the employer will, hopefully, recognise your potential and worth and offer you a permanent position within their organisation. At this stage you may have the opportunity to progress onto higher level or professional courses, such as those management training, degree programmes or NVQ 4. At Peterborough Regional College , we offer many relevant progression routes and higher qualifications to help advance your career, many of which can be studied part-time whilst you continue to work with your Apprenticeship employer.
Through your Apprenticeship programme, we will provide you with:
- A personal Training and Placement Advisor to support you
- Occupationally qualified tutors and assessors to deliver your training
- Regular work-based assessment
- Regular progress reviews with our staff and your employer
- Help writing your CV
- job search information and advice
- a suitable job with an approved employer
- All the help you will need to achieve your training plan and all your Apprenticeship qualifications
- The start to a successful career in your chosen occupation
- Access to over 300 local employers