What is involved in an apprenticeship?
Apprenticeships give you the chance to work for an employer, learn on the job and earn money. You can choose from a wide range of job areas depending on local availability.
There are three levels of Apprenticeship available:
Apprenticeships (equivalent to five good GCSE passes). Apprentices work towards work-based learning qualifications such as an NVQ Level 2, Key Skills and usually a qualification such as a BTEC. These provide the skills you need for your chosen career and allow entry to an Advanced Apprenticeship.
Advanced Apprenticeships (equivalent to two A-level passes). Advanced apprentices work towards work-based learning qualifications such as an NVQ Level 3, Key Skills usually a qualification such as a BTEC. To start this programme, you should ideally have five GCSEs (grade C or above) or have completed an Apprenticeship.
Higher Apprenticeships Higher apprentices work towards work-based learning qualifications such as an NVQ Level 4 and, in some cases, a knowledge-based qualification such as a Foundation degree.
Your Personal Adviser in school will help you to apply for Apprenticeships in Year 11.
Visit Apprenticeships to find out more.
Can I get an apprenticeship if I don’t have any qualifications?
It's likely that you will need 5 A*-Cs to get an apprenticeship. Foundation Learning could give you the chance to increase your skills before applying for an apprenticeship.
You can apply for Apprenticeships on Apprenticeship Vacancies, this will have details of apprenticeship opportunities throughout the country.
How do I find out about jobs?
Use our cnx2jobs website to find out about jobs for young people in Greater Manchester. Your Personal Adviser will be able to tell you more about these vacancies. If you are at school these vacancies may also be displayed on your school's Connexions notice board. Jobs aimed at school leavers won’t start until after the official school leaving date, which is the last Friday in June each year, but you often have to apply earlier in the year.
What employment opportunities are available to me at 18?
Most young people leaving college at 18 go on to Higher Education but a number choose to go into jobs and Professional Apprenticeships. Your Connexions Centre will have more details, as well as the following websites:
Where can I get more advice and guidance if I need help in making my decisions?
There are a number of people who can help you. Contact your Personal Adviser who can help you choose which option is right for you and give advice on opportunities, training and funding. You can also contact Connexions Direct, which offers quick access to advice and information on a range of topics. Connexions Direct or call them on 080 800 13 2 19 to speak to an adviser.
What help can I get if I’m in a job without training?
The best thing is to talk to your Personal Adviser about this and how you could get training.