Apprenticeships

If a student is interested in starting work and they are keen to learn some skills and gain qualifications, then an apprenticeship could be the right option for them.

On an apprenticeship you study for qualifications while working and you learn the skills you need for the job you are doing. To start an apprenticeship you must be 16 or over and not in full time education.
All apprentices must be paid the national minimum wage (£8.00 for under 19 and first year apprenticeships).

There are three levels of apprenticeship available, what level you start at would depend on your current qualifications and the opportunities available in the sector you are interested in.

Intermediate Apprenticeship (Level 2; equivalent to five good GCSE passes)

Provides you with the skills and qualifications for your chosen career and allow entry (if desired) to an Advanced Apprenticeship.  To be accepted you need to be enthusiastic,  keen to learn and have a reasonable standard of education.

Advanced Apprenticeship (Level 3; equivalent to two A-level passes)

To start this programme, you should have five GCSEs (grade A*-C) or have completed an Intermediate Apprenticeship. This will provide you with the skills and qualifications you need for your career and allow entry (if desired) to a Higher Apprenticeship or degree level qualification.

Higher Apprenticeship (Level 4/5; equivalent to a Foundation Degree)

To start this programme, you should have a Level 3 qualification (A-Levels, Advanced Diploma or International Baccalaureate) or have completed an Advanced Apprenticeship.

To find out what apprenticeships are available right now in the different areas around Cambridge, please click on one of the links below:

Traineeships

Traineeships are designed to prepare students for a future career, by helping them to get ready for the world of work and improving their chances of getting an Apprenticeship or other job.
Traineeships last anything from six weeks to a maximum of six months and can include:

• Work preparation training.
• English and Maths support (except people who already have an A*- C in these subjects) to provide the literacy and numeracy skills needed for the workplace.
• Meaningful work experience which provides insight and experience of the world of work and makes students more attractive to potential employers.

Apprenticeships and Traineeships Helpful Links

An apprenticeship, which must last for a minimum of 12 months, combines hands-on work with the opportunity to train and obtain qualifications. A traineeship is a skills development programme that includes a work placement. It can last from 6 weeks up to 1 year, though most traineeships last for less than 6 months, they usually take place prior to obtaining an apprenticeship.

Find an Apprenticeship – https://www.findapprenticeship.service.gov.uk/

• The governments website to find and apply for apprenticeships in England.

The Apprenticeship Guide – https://apprenticeshipguide.co.uk/

• Choose an apprenticeship, find an employer and contact a learning provider.

Apprenticeships – https://www.apprenticeships.gov.uk/apprentices

• The National Government sponsored websites for information on apprenticeships, traineeships and the vacancies database. Browse apprenticeships, listen to real life stories and search and apply for vacancies.

Future Talent – https://www.future-talent.com/

• Advertises apprenticeships degree apprenticeships. Also offers advice on applying for apprenticeships

GetMyFirstJob  – https://www.getmyfirstjob.co.uk/

• Find Apprenticeships, Degree Apprenticeships, Work Experience and Graduate opportunities by being connected with employers.

The Institute for Apprenticeships and Technical Education – www.instituteforapprenticeships.org/

• Provides information for apprentices, available apprenticeship standards and resources.

Amazing Apprenticeships – https://amazingapprenticeships.com/

• Explores apprenticeships, T Levels and Traineeships. Explains what apprenticeships are, how they work, and the different types. It also provides resources for prospective apprentices and parents to help you understand everything you need to know to secure and succeed in an apprenticeship.

Careermap – www.careermap.co.uk

• You can find apprenticeship offerings, graduate schemed, internships, jobs and training options.

All About School Leavers – https://www.allaboutschoolleavers.co.uk/

• UK wide job and apprenticeship search engine for school leavers also providing school leaver advice.

Studential  – https://www.studential.com/

• Aim to help all students aged 16 and older with their academic journey, by offering information and advice on all stages of education. university guide written by graduates.

At NCA we use AIM apprenticeships and Form the Future to deliver advice and guidance about apprenticeships through assemblies, workshops and 1 to 1 meetings.

For further information on apprenticeships and traineeships please contact:
Hayley Kruse, Assistant Principal