Apprenticeships – FAQs
Find out our most frequently asked Apprenticeships questions below.
What is an Apprenticeship?
An Apprenticeship is a job with training. A blend of ‘on’ the job and ‘off’ the job training that provides you with the skills you need for your chosen career, all while earning a wage and gaining a nationally recognised qualification.
Is there an age limit for an Apprenticeship?
As long as you’re over 16, you can do an Apprenticeship. There’s no upper age limit, so whether you’re just leaving education, have been working for some years, or would like to start a new career, you can apply for an Apprenticeship.
How long does an Apprenticeship last?
Apprenticeships last a minimum of 12 months. Advanced or Higher Apprenticeships could last between 18-24 months, and Degree Apprenticeships could be longer. This can also vary depending on your employment contract.
Where can I work?
Our Business Services Team delivers training and support to apprentices across a large geographical area. Don’t worry if you don’t live in Farnborough or Aldershot, we support Apprentices in many areas such as Guildford, Basingstoke, Woking and London.
Why do an Apprenticeship?
What Apprenticeships are available?
There are three levels of Apprenticeship you can choose from:
| Level of Apprenticeship | Entry Requirements |
|---|---|
| Intermediate Apprenticeship | A*-E/9-2 in GCSE Maths and English |
| Advanced Apprenticeship | Completion of an Intermediate Apprenticeship, and/or A*-C/9-4 in English and Maths or a relevant subject |
| Higher Apprenticeship | Completion of an Advanced Apprenticeship or relevant qualification or experience |
Successful Apprentices will gain a NVQ, Technical Certificate, a range of Functional Skills and Employment Rights and Responsibilities.
How do Apprenticeships work?
Find out from Ella, a Robert Welch Apprentice, what it’s been like to work in her role.
How much time will I spend in the workplace?
Apprentices either undertake their Apprenticeship entirely in the workplace alongside their job, or spend four days each week in the workplace and attend College one day a week (during term time). As an Apprentice you will spend at least 30 hours a week in the workplace.
Will I get paid?
Yes! Every vacancy on our website features the weekly wage. You can find the hourly rate for Apprentices on the government website.
What support can I expect once I’ve started my Apprenticeship?
When you’ve started your Apprenticeship, we’ll provide you with a personal assessor who will visit you in the workplace. Your employer will have a dedicated account manager who will be their single point of contact and support.
Will I come in to College?
You may spend 7 hours a week in College learning technical skills in your subject, as well as improving your English, Maths and sometimes ICT. Don’t worry; you’ll still get paid for your day in college if you have one.
Do I get holidays?
You’re entitled to a minimum of 20 days paid holiday a year, including bank holidays. More information can be found on the government website.
What happens during college holidays?
When you’ve completed the taught elements of your qualification, or during college holidays you’ll be in the workplace.
Where do I start?
You can start your application for an Apprenticeship at any time. We have over 35 Apprenticeship programmes to offer you, and our experienced Apprenticeship Team will support you every step of the way. Apprenticeships are available all year round, so if the right one isn’t there don’t worry, you may be able to find it later in the year.
If you have has a part-time job already, or have an employer who wants you to work as an Apprentice, both your employer and you can register with our Business Services Team who will help to set the Apprenticeship up.
To begin your application:
- Choose from our wide range of Apprenticeship Programmes
- Check out our Apprenticeship Vacancies
- Submit your Application and give us a call on 01252 407299
