APPRENTICESHIPS
Apprenticeships offer the chance for over-16s to earn a salary while gaining a recognised qualification and valuable work experience . They last at least 12 months and are full time and workplace based , with additional teaching online or at a college or training provider . With 280 types of apprenticeships and more than 1,500 job roles , they offer plenty of choice .
There are four main levels of apprenticeship :
• Intermediate level , which is considered to be the same as five GCSE passes .
• Advanced level , which is widely regarded as being the same as two A level passes .
• Higher level , which can lead to NVQ Level 4 and above , or a foundation degree .
• Degree apprenticeships – offered at some universities , these enable participants to achieve a full Bachelors or Masters degree as part of their apprenticeship . There ’ s more information about higher and degree apprenticeships on page 79 .
Is it right for your child ?
• If your child has decided on a particular career path or sector and would prefer to gain qualifications in a ‘ real ’ work environment , this could be the right choice for them .
• They will be paid a salary while they learn .
• Entry requirements vary , but to get onto an advanced apprenticeship many recruiters ask for four or five GCSEs including English and maths .
• Your child could choose to go on to a higher or degree-level apprenticeship , or take a professional qualification for a specific job role . Depending on the qualifications they gain during the apprenticeship , they could also choose to go to university .
GOOD TO KNOW
Remember that because apprenticeships are paid , you will no longer be eligible for Child Benefit or Child Tax Credits if your child begins an apprenticeship .
After finishing , the majority of apprentices ( 90 %) will stay in employment ( including 2 % self-employed ), with 7 in 10 ( 71 %) staying with the same employer . Skills Funding Agency , 2016
Other work-related schemes your child might come across during their research include :
• Traineeships – lasting between six weeks and six months , these offer work experience and numeracy and literacy skills , providing a foundation for an apprenticeship or work .
• School leaver programmes – these are similar to higher level apprenticeships , offering paid , on-the-job training which may include gaining a qualification . They can take between 12 months and five years .
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