What to do next – Apprenticeships

A levels remain the traditional route for post-16 education, as degrees remain the traditional route post A Levels, but there is another viable option which offers the same level of training and education as both whilst gaining real work experience – Apprenticeships.

Apprenticeships have been fast gaining a growing reputation for being the first choice for many young people, especially given the government’s target of 3million Apprentices by 2020.

What is an Apprenticeship?

Apprenticeships combine study with practical on the job training.

• Apprentices immediately start gaining work experience in a work place, able to learn directly from existing, experienced staff
• Apprentices gain job-specific skills in their chosen industry whilst gaining a qualification at the same time
• Apprentices are paid a wage at all levels from intermediate to degree level, meaning that Apprentices get paid to learn. Over the course of their career, an Apprentice can potentially earn more than a graduate.
• Many Apprentices stay in employment after completing their Apprenticeship, many progressing to the next level of Apprenticeship study

“Apprentices have been an asset to our business and are an integral part of our recruitment process.” Awcock Ward Partnership

Levels of Apprenticeships

Apprenticeships are available at a number of different levels and entry can vary depending on experience and grades.

• Intermediate – the level that post-GCSE students would expect to start at
• Advanced – the equivalent of two A Levels
• Higher – the equivalent to foundation degree or HNC/HND level
• Degree – BA/BSc or MA/MSc level

“If you want work experience, along with high levels of training and a wage, then the Apprenticeship route is the only way to go.” Abbie, Level 3 Accountancy Apprentice

“Ignore stereotypical views about Apprenticeships, research everything about them, they are valuable, they do help and they can change your life.” Joe, former Digital Marketing Apprentice, now Director of The Social Media Lab.

How do I find an Apprenticeship?

The best way to find an apprenticeship is to speak to Exeter College who can help put you in contact companies that you would like to work for.

We can help you apply for apprenticeship vacancies, improve your CV and write a stand out covering letter and personal statement.

Exeter College post over 100 vacancies each week on their website www.bit.ly/ECAppVacancies

Alternatively, you can approach companies that you would like to work for and see whether they might consider taking you on as an apprentice. Make sure you are prepared when talking to employers and take your CV with you. Being proactive is the best way to show an employer that you are the employee for them.

Pre-Apprenticeships

Pre-Apprenticeships are an attractive alternative for students not quite ready for Apprenticeship. A Pre-Apprenticeship programme typically lasts from six weeks to six months and offer high quality work placements, work preparation training and support in English and Maths.

Pre-Apprenticeships are usually available for school leaners who are struggling to secure an Apprenticeship, but they may appeal to those with limited work place experience. They are generally unpaid, although travel and expenses are usually covered.

At the end of the Pre-Apprenticeship programme, trainees will be encouraged to take up an Apprentice position. The Pre-Apprenticeship programme boosts your CV and provides a perfect foundation for an Apprenticeship or ultimately a job.

The Exeter College Apprenticeship Team are here to help support anyone looking to take up an Apprenticeship following their results. The dedicated team can help with CV and application advice, as well as talk through available vacancies and next steps.

Call the Apprenticeship Hotline on 01392 400800.