Becoming An Apprentice

Find help for apprentices here. You can apply for apprenticeships whether you want to begin a career, are looking for a change, or want to be upskilled in your current job. You can have previous qualifications, but there are many apprenticeships for adults with no qualifications, and plenty of school leavers apprenticeships. Whatever you desired career, becoming an apprentice could be the key to getting where you want to go.

There’s power in upskilling

What is an apprenticeship?

Apprenticeships are a real job where you study for qualifications, gain practical work-based experience, and get paid. Becoming an apprentice you’ll be an employee with a contract of employment, a holiday allowance and a wage, and by the end of your studies you will have the right skills and knowledge to fulfil your role.

You might find 1 year apprenticeships or 6 year apprenticeships suited to you, depending on which apprenticeship you choose and what the level is. 1 year apprenticeships are the minimum length – your apprenticeship will always be at least one year long, so if you are seeking 6 month apprenticeships, you will struggle. Apprenticeships are funded by contributions made by the government and your employer, and there’s help for apprentices available in the form of government grants.

What will I do as an apprentice?

Starting an apprenticeship, you will learn and train for a specific job, getting hands-on experience in a real role. You will be paid and receive holiday leave, as well as any other benefits offered to full-time employees. Becoming an apprentice means studying for at least 20% of working hours, completing assessments during and at the end of your apprenticeship. You will be on a career path with plenty of future potential, and will possess invaluable skills to benefit you.

What different types of apprenticeships are there?

Apprenticeships come in all shapes and sizes, with many different roles across a wide variety of different industries. Options are practically unlimited if you’re considering becoming an apprentice – they aren’t just for the trade industry, as is commonly assumed. If you want to apply for apprenticeships, view our range of courses.

2

Intermediate

GCSE

3

Advanced

A Level

4

Higher

Foundation degree and above

5

Higher

Foundation degree and above

6

Degree

Bachelor’s or master’s degree

7

Degree

Bachelor’s or master’s degree

Depending on the level, some apprenticeships might require previous qualifications or give extra training in English and maths skills.

How much will you be paid?

Apprentices are paid the National Minimum Wage for Apprentices. However, many employers will choose to pay more than this. Your wage will depend on the sector, region, and apprenticeship level. There is help for apprentices – some apprentices might be eligible for extra funding, depending on their age.

Apprenticeship wage information

How are apprenticeships assessed?

Apprenticeships involve continuously learning with progress assessed throughout. An End-Point Assessment will be taken at the end of the apprenticeship to allow you to showcase what you have learned. Each EPA is carried out with an independent assessor, and has at least two assessment methods. This might be observed in your workplace, complete written tests, or submit a portfolio.

Why choose Estio?

Estio is a leading provider of digital and technology apprenticeship programmes, offering a comprehensive apprenticeship course informed by industry expertise, and delivered remotely to ensure enough flexibility for your apprentice’s needs to be suited. If you are interested in becoming an apprentice, apply for apprenticeships with Estio today.

Apprenticeship vs university

If you are a school leaver, you may be weighing up which is the best option for you. University vs apprenticeship is a long-running debate, and whilst higher education remains a popular option for most, you might be more suited to an apprenticeship – there are even plenty of apprenticeships for adults with no qualifications.

Apprenticeship benefits

With school leaver apprenticeships, you can immediately enter the world of work. After starting an apprenticeship, you’ll gain on the job experience, earning money as you study, with no tuition fees. Throughout the course of your apprenticeship, you’ll make industry contacts from day one, which will help to further your career.

University benefits

University will allow you to pick from thousands of courses, with many degrees leaving your potential career open ended. Should you study away from home, you will also grow more independent. You’ll learn a range of soft skills which can be transferrable to any job role, and you can even still apply for apprenticeships after uni.

Is an apprenticeship for me?

When considering becoming an apprentice, consider also what will be expected from you and the qualifications you will receive in return. Does the role suit you and your aspirations? Will you gain another qualification alongside your apprenticeship? Will the hours work? This should help you to decide whether or not the apprenticeship is right for you.

I couldn’t recommend Estio Training enough for their delightfully helpful, hands-on team, who made my journey in finding my next career venture feel like such a completely stress-free and pleasant experience.

| New Apprentice, Google Review

How to become an apprentice

You can become an apprentice by researching apprenticeships in your area. Complete and submit your application, attend an interview, and aim for success.

Ready to apply?

 

Tips for applying to an apprenticeship

Here are our top tips for anyone looking to apply for apprenticeships:

  • Ask someone to check your application before you submit
  • Dress professionally for interview – even if the role you’re applying for doesn’t require it
  • Share your long-term career aspirations with prospective employers – this shows you’ve thought about career goals
  • Send a thank-you email after interview
  • Remain positive – it can take some time to find the right apprenticeship

Available Jobs

FAQs

Is being an apprentice worth it?

Apprenticeships are specifically tailored to ensure you develop the skills employers want. This means apprentices have good long-term salary prospects and great progression opportunities.

Do you need a personal statement for an apprenticeship?

This depends on the apprenticeship and the employer, and it’s very common to be asked for one.

Can anyone be an apprentice?

Anyone above the age of 16 who isn’t in full time education. There isn’t an age limit, and anyone can study for one.

Can I go straight into an apprenticeship?

Whether you’re starting your career, want a change or are upskilling your current job, you can start an apprenticeship. You could have a previous qualification, like a degree, and still begin an apprenticeship.

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