A guide to apprenticeships and applications

 

An apprenticeship is a paid job which offers hands-on work experience alongside off-the-job training. This means that the application process for an apprenticeship will often be the same as it would be for any form of employment.

This may mean that an employer could ask for:

· A job application which could be an online version or paper based

· A CV or covering letter

· An interview, if you are successful in the first stages of applying

Employers have different recruitment practices so it’s important that you research the employer’s website and read the job advert carefully before applying. The National Careers Website (www.nationalcareersservice.gov.uk) is useful for extra guidance and support about job applications, CVs and interviews.

 

Four reasons why you should think about applying for an apprenticeship:

1. You’ll get paid a wage – Apprenticeships are now seen to be a gateway into jobs that require higher level qualifications such as degrees. There are many areas where you can complete an apprenticeship – engineering, software development, solicitor, nursing… the list goes on.

2. You’ll train in a highly skilled job – There is a minimum wage for apprentices which is also known as the apprenticeship wage. This is currently set at £4.81 per hour for apprentices aged 16 to 18. This amount increases each year. Some employers pay more than the minimum wage.

3. You could get a university degree – If you go on to complete a degree apprenticeship you will gain a university degree. The benefit of completing it this way is that you won’t have any tuition fee debt as your employer pays the costs.

4. You’ll learn on the job – Apprentices gain much of the knowledge and skills needed for their role by being trained in the workplace by experienced colleagues. You will have hands on experience of your role that traditional college courses may not provide. This can give you a head start when it comes to looking for long term employment.

 

Finding apprenticeship opportunities

There are many apprenticeships that you can choose from. The website www.findapprenticeship.service.gov.uk/apprenticeshipsearch has lots of information. Vacancies can be saved and applied for and alerts can be set up to let you know of new vacancies in the sector that you are interested in.

It is also worthwhile looking at employers’ websites, as some advertise apprenticeships there and you can directly apply.

YOU SHOULD APPLY FOR MORE THAN ONE APPRENTICESHIP!

This increases your chances of securing one. Finding an apprenticeship can sometimes be more complicated than applying for full-time education (e.g. college). It is more similar to applying for an actual job, so apply for more positions to give you a better chance of being accepted for one.

 

What if I don’t get one of the apprenticeships I’m applying for?

Apprenticeships often have lots of applicants. It can be very competitive and many applicants find that they are not successful in securing a place after their first few applications. Try not to feel disheartened if this happens as it is all part of the process. Try to remain positive and continue applying – the right opportunity will come along for you. If you feel like you need someone to talk to, try and find some support with the application process through friends, family, teachers or career advisers. Be proactive – visit more websites and ask for feedback on your applications to understand the areas that may need improvement.