How does an apprenticeship work?

1. Find an Employer
You apply for an apprenticeship just like a job. If you’re accepted, you become an employee of the company — but also an apprentice.

2. Earn While You Learn

• You must be employed between 16 and 40 hours per week
• Get paid for your time at work and any time you spend at college or with your assessor.
• Learn practical, job specific skills in the workplace.

3. Training
Alongside your job, apprentices receive training. This can be on-the-job, online or day release at one of our campuses. This covers theory, safety, technical knowledge and Essential Skills (depending on previously achieved qualifications).

4. Progress and Assessment

• You’ll be assessed throughout your apprenticeship
• You’ll complete assignments, tests, or skills demonstrations where required.
• Your progress will be reviewed at least every eight weeks with your assessor and employer.

5. Completion and Qualification

• You will receive a certificate recognised by employers in your industry.
• You can work as a qualified tradesperson or professional.

How do I find a job?
Finding an apprenticeship can feel daunting but it becomes much easier when you break it into smaller steps.

1. Decide what you want
What kind of work interests you? (hands-on, creative, technical, customer-facing, etc.) What skills or strengths do you have? What kind of environment do you like — office, outdoors, shop floor, etc.?

If you’re not sure, try listing your favourite subjects, hobbies, or things you’re naturally good at

2. Prepare what you need
A CV lists your education, skills, hobbies and experience. You could also include:

• Volunteering
• School projects
• Clubs or sports teams
• A cover letter explaining why you want the job.
• References (if possible): Somebody who knows you well e.g. a teacher or employer

3. Look for jobs here:

• GLLM Jobs Notice Board
• Careers Wales
• Job Centre
• Indeed
• Social Media
• Career centres at schools or community programmes
• Apprenticeship or trade websites
• Use Google to search for local employers for example councils, public services, large and small businesses.
• Ask family, friends, teachers, or community groups if they know of openings.

Keep checking regularly!

When applying for online vacancies, don’t forget to check the location of the job. Are you able to drive there or is it on a bus / train route?

4. Apply

• Follow the instructions in the job advert carefully.
• Tailor your CV and cover letter for each job.
• Be polite and professional in all communication.

5. Prepare for interview

• Find out about the employer.
• Practice common questions e.g. “Tell me about yourself”, “Why do you want this job?”. Dress neatly and be on time.
• Show enthusiasm and good manners.

6. Don’t give up
If you don’t get one job, don’t worry. Often people apply for several jobs before they are successful. Keep improving your CV, practicing interviews, and applying regularly.

For help writing a CV, please complete the Camva enquiry form.

Applying for your apprenticeship.
When you have found a suitable job role, contact us again and we’ll get in touch with your new employer to explain the benefits of the Apprenticeship, when you can start and how you can enrol.

You can get back in touch with us by filling out the enquiry form.