Apprenticeships
Apprenticeships are becoming more and more popular as the route into a successful career. With an apprenticeship you earn while you learn, you gain recognised qualifications, job specific skills and knowledge and this all helps you stand out in the job market.
Whether you are a young person aged 16-19 or aged 20 and over, a range of options may be open to you which will allow you to build your knowledge and skills through work.
What is an apprenticeship?
An apprenticeship is a job that includes training and qualifications. You get paid a wage whilst you work and learn.
As an apprentice you will get:
- Hands-on experience: You’ll work alongside skilled professionals, gaining practical skills and experience.
- Training: Depending on your apprenticeship, you will complete training at a college, training centre, or online, and meet regularly with your assessor.
- Paid employment: Apprentices earn wages while they learn.
- Duration: Most apprenticeships last 1 to 4 years, depending on the occupation.
- Certification: On completion, you will achieve an industry-recognised qualification or license — for example, becoming a certified electrician, plumber, or chef.
How does an apprenticeship work?
An apprenticeship works by combining work experience with training, allowing you to earn while you learn and also gain a recognised qualification.
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, industry-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, and technical knowledge.
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 or license recognised by employers in your industry
- You can work as a fully qualified tradesperson or professional
Ten reasons to be an apprentice
1. Get a head start in a field you want to work in
As an apprentice you can train in a field you want to work in. You won’t be turned down due to a lack of experience; instead, you can grow your career from day one.
2. Try something completely new
It’s not only traditional trades like construction and engineering we offer Apprenticeships in. With over 120 different roles, you can try something you’ve always fancied or something you’d have never thought of before.
3. Gain insights into the world of work
It’s difficult to imagine the world of work until you’re in it. As an apprentice, you’ll experience life as an employee in the workplace, picking up lots of skills along the way.
4. Work with experienced colleagues
Your colleagues will be experienced and successful in their field so you can learn from them as well as from the training you’ll receive.
5. Become a valued employee, receive holiday pay and in some cases, study leave
From day one you will enjoy many of the perks that come from being employed.
6. Increase your employability
An Apprenticeship will help you build your confidence and you will get job specific skills that will make you more employable.
7. Become independent
Earning money and starting in the world of work can help you become a more independent and self-reliant person.
8. Gain experience for your CV
An Apprenticeship will look great on your CV. It shows you have experience, appropriate skills and a willingness to work.
9. Gain qualifications
As well as experience you’ll gain recognised qualifications which match exactly what your employer wants. These will benefit your career in the short and long-term.
10. Earn a wage
There is a national minimum wage for apprentices. So, as well as gaining skills, experience and qualifications you’ll be earning a wage too.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there an age limit?
No - BUT - there is a priority of places on Apprenticeship Programmes for young people aged 16-19 or employees who are new in post.
Construction Apprenticeships require applicants to;
- Have achieved a Level 1 or Level 2 post-16 qualification in Construction or Engineering or have at least one year of life skills gained after compulsory education and
- Meet the Apprenticeship entry criteria.
Who can apply for an apprenticeship?
Anyone who is over 16, living in Wales and not in full-time education can apply.
Where will training take place?
Either day release at one of the college campuses or Open Distance Learning, where delivery is in the workplace only.
How many hours must an apprentice work?
An apprentice must be employed for a minimum of 16 hours per week.
How much does the employer pay the apprentice?
An apprentice must be paid the national minimum wage noted on the direct.gov website: www.direct.gov.uk or contact ACAS help line on 0300 123 1100.
What qualifications are included?
This would depend on the route the learner is following, but most apprenticeship frameworks consist of an NVQ, a Technical Certificate and Essential Skills. For further details, see the route-specific section of the website or contact our general email for further information.
How long will the apprenticeship take to complete?
A Foundation Apprenticeship takes between 12 and 24 months depending on what route is being followed. When an apprentice signs up for the training scheme, they will be given a target time to finish.
Does the organisation need to be of a certain size?
There are no restrictions on the size of the employer with regards to apprenticeship learners.
What support will an employer get?
- Help with recruiting apprentices
- Guidance during learners apprenticeship programme
- Apprentice Progress Reviews every other month
How do I find an apprentice?
If you do not have an employee who you wish to put on the apprenticeship scheme, you can contact the Work Placement Officers within the College. We often have a list of learners who are looking for an employer to support them in an apprenticeship. There is also the Apprenticeship Matching Service (AMS) available through Careers Wales which can be found on their website: www.careerswales.com
Jobs Growth Wales+
Jobs Growth Wales+ is a programme run by the Welsh Government for 16-19 year olds in Wales.
Degree Apprenticeships
Degree apprenticeships provide an alternative route to traditional higher education. They combine full-time work with part-time university study.
Higher Apprenticeships
The Higher Apprenticeship programme allows you to work towards a level 4 or 5 work-based learning qualification alongside a higher knowledge qualification such as a Foundation degree or a Higher National Certificate (HNC).