APPRENTICESHIPS 2019 2020 - The Parents' Guide to
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The Parents’ Guide to APPRENTICESHIPS 2019 - 2020 Full edition
Contents
Introduction
What your child chooses to do after sixth form is both
exciting and daunting. There are lots of options available
and understanding the pros and cons between different
choices can be challenging. Apprenticeships should not
be over-looked; they offer the opportunity to combine
study with paid employment resulting in a professional
qualification. There are no tuition fees (these are covered
by the employer and the government) and the salary
covers living expenses.
03 50 Relatively new to the apprenticeship suite are “degree
Introduction The application process apprenticeships”, offering an earn while you learn route
to BSc or BA status. In other words, the end qualification
is the same as if they had attended university full time,
the difference is that they will not have incurred any debt
in tuition fees and will finish their degree with robust and
transferable workplace skills.
Apprenticeships used to be associated with trade industries
(such as electricians, mechanics or plumbers). Nowadays,
apprenticeships can be taken in a wide range of industry
sectors and provide entry to all types of careers, including
accountancy, banking, IT, law, management and television.
06 68 Taking an apprenticeship is not an easy option and
Apprenticeships explained Next steps
competition can be fierce. It takes organisation and
dedication to balance work, where your child will be
expected to contribute to the same standards as everyone
Special features else, and study. Holidays are far fewer than at college or
university. However, if they have a more practical, work-
20 - What’s on offer? related bias towards learning this will suit them well and
they will obtain valuable experience which will strengthen
opportunities in finding rewarding work when the
38 - Career options apprenticeship is over.
58 - Interview questions Selecting the right apprenticeship will require your child to
34
have reasonable confidence in the type of career they wish
to follow although there is some flexibility. So how do you
Finding the right help them decide? We’ll guide you.
apprenticeship
3
Providing the information you need
With different levels, qualifications and Using this guide effectively:
length of study, apprenticeships can seem
like a complicated option, especially if
you don’t know anyone that’s been an Useful links
apprentice. The recent introduction of If you want to delve deeper and find
degree apprenticeship, offering the chance out more, we’ve included useful links
to qualify with a Bachelor of Arts or Science, to other reliable sources. Simply click
which had previously only been available on the picture icons to be taken to our
by going to university, can also seem recommended websites.
confusing. There’s some good information
online, but very little designed specifically
for parents, so it can be quite complicated Key information boxes
to track down exactly what you need to help Information we think is particularly
your child make the right decision. important has been highlighted
throughout this guide; pay special
That’s why we’ve created this straight- attention to these!
forward guide covering the options availa-
ble. We’ll explain everything from what the
different apprenticeship levels mean to how Summaries
you can help them make the best impres- To help save you time, we have
sion at interview and everything in between. provided useful summaries at the end
of each chapter containing the key
This includes step-by-step information on: points.
• Deciding which level is the best fit;
• Finding the most suitable Interactive
apprenticeship; To make moving around this guide
• What’s involved in the application easier, the contents and chapter head-
process and how to prepare. ings are interactive. Simply click on a
heading to be taken to the chapter or
page you would like to read. Selecting
Our aim is to help you eliminate doubt
the page number (bottom corner of
and anxiety, so you can provide calm and
the page) will return you to the main
informed support. This will empower you
contents page.
to offer more helpful guidance to your
child, with the ultimate goal of helping
This guide does not need to be read
them create a future to fulfil their potential
sequentially – browse what interests
and make themselves (and you!) happy.
you most.
4 5
“
Apprenticeships explained I always enjoyed the practical
08
subjects at school. Applying
for an apprenticeship in digital
“
marketing felt the right choice.
Understanding apprenticeships
What are the different types of
apprenticeships and what do the
levels mean?
14
Non- degree apprenticeships
What does a non-degree apprentice-
ship entail and is it right for my child?
18
Degree apprenticeships
How does a degree apprenticeship
work and how is this different from
going to university?
Chapter 1
32
Summary
7
Understanding apprenticeships
Apprenticeships were developed Apprenticeship levels Flexibility Study at university
to help address the skills shortage Apprenticeships are designed to be There is usually an element of academic
Apprenticeships range between Level 2
in UK businesses. They provide a flexible. An employer may offer a level 6 learning during an apprenticeship, but
and Level 7. There is no “Level 1” – that’s
way of combining learning with on because enrolling on an apprentice- or 7 apprenticeship without it resulting degree apprenticeships are a specific
the job training, which helps build ship requires demonstrating a certain in a degree – although the qualification type of apprenticeship (Level 6 and
solid, professional skills transferable aptitude. Apprenticeship levels 4-6 are earned would be considered equivalent above) that include study at university
from one organisation to another. aimed at sixth form leavers with levels to a degree. It’s important your child resulting in a degree level qualification
Apprenticeships can last from one 6-7 offering degree or equivalent level checks the qualifications on offer before (BA or BSc). Be warned! Not all appren-
to five years – and may be longer if qualifications. A full list of the levels and applying for the apprenticeship. ticeships that include study at university
undertaken part-time. They result what they mean can be found on pages 9 result in obtaining a degree.
in a professional qualification. and 10 of this guide.
Employers pay a salary and tuition
fees are covered by the employer IN 2018, OVER 100,00 STUDENTS
and the government. UNDER 19 STARTED AN
APPRENTICESHIP
Who can become an apprentice?
Apprenticeships are aimed at candidates
between 16 and 25 years old. However,
they are now open to anyone age 16 or
over looking to improve their expertise.
This means there’s plenty of competition
from more experienced applicants, but
organisations are often keen to take on
school-leavers in order to train them
both in the job and the organisation’s
values. Very often the relationship contin-
ues long after the apprenticeship is over.
Useful link
GOV. UK
Overview
8 9
Apprenticeship levels
LEVEL 2 LEVEL 4/5
Intermediate apprenticeships Higher apprenticeships
Typical length Typical length
12-18 months 3-5 years
Entry requirements: Entry requirements:
None or few A Levels or equivalent
Qualifications obtained: Qualifications obtained:
GCSE, BTEC or equivalent Higher national diploma / foundation
degree
Who’s it for?
Mostly for 16-year-olds with limited or Who’s it for?
no academic qualifications. Mostly for those who want to qualify for
professional career paths without attending
university or college. Sometimes referred to as
‘school leaver’ or ‘non-graduate’ programmes.
LEVEL 3 LEVEL 6/7
Advanced apprenticeships Degree apprenticeships
Typical length Typical length
12-24 months 3-7 years
Entry requirements: Entry requirements:
Usually 5 GCSEs At least 2 A Levels or equivalent
Qualifications obtained: Qualifications obtained:
A Levels or equivalent A BA or BSc degree or higher
Who’s it for? Who’s it for?
Mostly for 16-year-olds with reasonable Mostly for those with excellent sixth form
academic achievements but who don’t results that want to study for a degree or
want to study in sixth form. similar whilst working. Aimed at attracting
talented, high-calibre candidates to bridge
professional skills gaps.
10 11
History of apprenticeships
However, despite such significant changes,
Apprenticeships date back as far as Mid to late 1900s Keep an open mind there are still some misconceptions and
the 14th century and were closely By the 1960s, a large number of initiatives Apprenticeships may have been around preconceived ideas. Keep in mind that
related to medieval trades of the were introduced to modernise the for centuries, but there have been apprenticeships are available across a
time. Skilled artisans taught their traditional apprenticeship. Industrial significant changes in recent years. wide range of industries, can provide a
craft to apprentices who, eventually, Training Boards were set up to improve Historically, apprenticeships supported route into professional occupations and,
became masters themselves and and monitor the delivery and quality of trade careers such as carpentry, building with the introduction of degree appren
employed their own apprentices. apprenticeship training schemes. Despite and needlework, without offering a ticeships, offer a credible alternative to
such efforts, by the 1980s and 1990s, route into professional careers such as university. Degree apprenticeships have
Origins apprenticeship recruitment slowed. This law, accountancy and management. In also created routes into jobs which previ-
was largely attributed to the decline in addition, earlier apprenticeships didn’t ously could only be entered by obtaining
Early apprenticeships were not regulated; manufacturing and crafts-based indus- provide the opportunity of obtaining a degree through university, such as
parents paid a master craftsman to teach tries and the increased accessibility to higher qualifications such as degrees or nursing.
their child a skill and the child was legally further education. masters. This has now changed.
bound to the master for the duration of
the apprenticeship which usually lasted six Recent developments
to eight years. Children started work when
they were around 10-12 years old and the Since then, successive governments
master was expected to provide moral have continued to reform and modernise
guidance as well as food and shelter. apprenticeships to reflect the demands
of a changing economy. For example,
Regulation in 2015, degree apprenticeships were
introduced offering a credible alternative
In 1563, during the time of Elizabeth I, a more to university education. This enabled
formal system was introduced to prevent apprentices to obtain a degree qualifica-
crafts being practised by non-skilled workers tion on the successful completion of their
including some terms and conditions of apprenticeship. In 2018, over 210,000
work for apprenticeships. In the following students successfully completed an
centuries, the rights and entitlements of the apprenticeship with 7,000 completing the
apprentice gradually improved and, by the degree apprenticeship – only three years
mid-17th century, some apprentices started after its introduction in 2015.
to receive a small wage for their work.
12 13
Non-degree apprenticeships
If your child wants to continue levels. Level 3 qualifications may include Traineeships and internships are not types of apprenticeships:
their education after sixth form but National Certificates, National Diplomas
doesn’t want to undertake three or or NVQs, suitable as a post 16 or post 18 Traineeships Internships
four years’ study, apprenticeships option.
Traineeships are short-term work plac- Whilst internships can be useful, they
offer the opportunity to commit to ings lasting up to a maximum of sixth should not be confused with apprentice-
just one or two years and obtain a Higher apprenticeships (level 4 / 5) provide months to help young people become ships. Internships are informal arrangements
recognised higher qualification. a higher education qualification equiva- “job ready”. The work experience with an employer, there is rarely a signed
lent to the first or second year of university. element includes at least 100 hours contract, they are usually short-term (less
Qualifications Level 4 and 5 qualifications include Higher on the job training to help provide the than one year) and they do not result in a
Most apprenticeships work towards one or National Certificates (equivalent to necessary experience to undertake formal qualification. They do offer an insight
more qualifications. These qualifications first year of university), Higher National apprenticeships or other employment. into business, networking opportunities, the
correspond to the level of apprenticeship. Diplomas (equivalent to second year of
possibility of job offers afterwards and the
Intermediate apprenticeships (level 2) is university) or foundation degrees.
ability to learn practical, transferable skills.
equivalent to gaining five GCSEs at grade
C / 4 and above. Most apprenticeships at Flexibility
this level will cover basic numeracy and Apprenticeships are often flexible in CHECK CAREFULLY THE TYPE AND
literacy skills as well as providing level 2 that it may be possible to extend the LEVEL OF QUALIFICATION OFFERED
qualifications, such as awards, certificates, apprenticeship period and obtain a higher
diplomas or NVQs depending on the qualification. For example, some appren- BY THE APPRENTICESHIP
length and difficulty of the work and train- ticeships will allow you to continue on to
ing provided. a higher apprenticeship (level 4 / 5) once
the advanced apprenticeship is complete.
Advanced apprenticeships (level 3) Always check with your employer whether
provide qualifications equivalent to 2 A such progression is possible.
Typical entry requirements for non-degree apprenticeships
• Must live in the region where they • Must have a Grade C / 4 GCSE (or
are applying for the apprenticeship equivalent) in English and Maths or be
(i.e. England, Wales, Scotland or studying towards it;
Northern Ireland) except for degree • Should commit to the full term of their
apprenticeships (level 6); apprenticeship;
• Must work at least 30 hours per week – • Additional apprenticeships (i.e. higher
which includes teaching time (though levels) can be added on at a later date if
additional study time will be needed); desired (i.e. one year initial commitment,
followed by another year).
14 15
What’s on offer?
Non-degree apprenticeships offer a prac- It’s worth remembering that this investment
tical, staged approach to learning through provides benefits for the company too:
experiencing the job first-hand. There • A workforce trained to their unique
may be some separate study at a training professional needs;
centre or college, but most of the coaching • Chance to reinforce their values with new
will be provided by the employer as work employees;
experience. This is a significant investment • Long-term commitment of staff, avoiding
for companies, in staff time, finance and recruitment and re-training costs;
other resources. They are keen to nurture • Flexible, mobile workforce to help fill any
talent because it demonstrates that they unexpected gaps.
offer:
• Investment in people (not just products One of the great advantages about an
or services);
apprenticeship is that it works well for both
• Professional development and career
progression; employer and apprentice. As a result,
it can often be the start of a long and
• Long and successful career opportunities;
rewarding professional relationship.
• Personal and professional growth.
Examples of companies offering apprenticeships
“
I didn’t want to commit to three
years, but I still wanted to get
“
further qualifications.
16 17
Degree apprenticeships DEGREE APPRENTICESHIPS OFFER
AN EARN WHY YOU LEARN ROUTE
TO OBTAINING A FULL DEGREE
Degree apprenticeships (levels 6 This should significantly contribute, if
and 7), developed by universities, not totally cover, living expenses (such QUALIFICATION
professional bodies and employers, as accommodation, food, travel and
offer the chance to qualify with a entertainment) way beyond what their
bachelors or masters degree whilst university peers can achieve through
working. Time is split between work part-time work.
and study. This can be an attractive
alternative to attending university. Links to universities
At the moment, degree apprentice- Degree apprenticeships were launched
ships are only available in England or in September 2015. As they are relatively
Wales but applications can be made new, places are limited, but due to their
from anywhere in the UK. popularity and success, new apprentice-
ships are being created regularly. Most
Fees organisations partner with a small number
of universities so the choice of apprentice-
There are no tuition fees to pay (these are ship must be driven by the apprenticeship
covered by the employer and the govern- type (and reputation of the company
ment) and the apprentice will receive offering it) and not location or university.
a salary to cover living expenses, paid Applications for degree apprenticeships
holiday and sick leave. Salaries usually are via the company offering the appren-
range between £7k-18k p/a, although ticeships, not via UCAS.
some employers offer more.
Typical entry requirements for degree apprenticeships
• Unlike other apprenticeships, • Must have Level 3 qualifications
applicants for degree apprenticeships (minimum two A level passes or
can live anywhere in the UK, but the equivalent). Sometimes more is
apprenticeships are only available in required;
England and Wales; • Some employers have specific entry
• Must work at least 30 hours per week – requests;
which includes teaching time (though • Should commit to the full term of their
additional study time will be needed); apprenticeship (which may be three to
• Must have a Grade C / 4 “GCSE” (or four years, or longer if part time).
equivalent) in English and Maths or be
studying towards it;
18 19What’s on offer?
Degree apprenticeships are a very There’s no guarantee that a job offer will A top ten apprentice employer, BT offers
significant investment for companies, in follow an apprenticeship, but a company’s On the successful completion of the
Chartered Management Degree an impressive array of apprenticeships
staff time, finance and other resources. objective in investing in the appren- including degree apprenticeships in
Employers promise to fund (or part- ticeship is to create a top-pool of talent Apprenticeship offered by the BBC,
apprentices will gain a BSc Honours Technology, IT, Cyber Security, Business
fund) three or four years’ tuition costs, from which they can select the very best Management, Engineering, Logistics and
salary (and all the related additional employees. Because apprenticeships degree in Business Management and
have the option to apply for professional Digital Development. Apprenticeships are
costs, such as holiday / sick leave), a include the development of many trans- likely to be highly competitive.
job opportunity for three or four years, ferable skills (emailing, meetings, recognition as Chartered Managers.
mentoring and on the job training. problem-solving, strategy, implemen-
tation, project management and team
Such a commitment is not undertaken building to name but a few) as well as
lightly and, in the most part, companies company specific skills training, it’s not
do this because they aim to develop problematic to obtain a degree from an
talented individuals, skilled to fulfil the apprenticeship with one company but
companies’ unique needs, who will subsequently move to another. However,
continue working for them long into the quite often an apprenticeship is the start Offering apprenticeships in Digital Alongside its five year degree appren-
future. of a long and rewarding professional Technology and Business, apprentices ticeship in Software Engineering,
relationship. have the opportunity to gain degrees KPMG also offer its 360 degrees Digital
in Software Development, Digital and Apprenticeship, providing their appren-
Technology Solutions or IT Management tices with the flexibility to specialise and
Examples of degree apprenticeships at one of CGI’s four partner universities. pursue a career route of their choice in
years 3 and 4.
As a top 100 employer, Accenture Airbus currently offer two level 6 In partnership with Sheffield Hallam Santander offer degree apprenticeships
currently provide a Technology degree degree apprenticeships in Engineering University, the Nestle Academy offers three in Digital Engineering, Data Science and
Apprenticeship in five locations including ( BEng Honours Degree in Aerospace degree apprenticeships in Chartered Corporate and Commercial Banking and
London, Edinburgh and Manchester. The Engineering) and Digital and Technology Management, Digital Marketing and are designed to lead to permanent roles
apprenticeship lasts for 3 or 4 years and Solutions (BSc). Apprenticeships last for Operations. Apprenticeships last for three within the business. Entry requirements
enables its apprentices to obtain a BSc 3 or 4 years and are based at one of their years and entry requirements start from range from 104 to 112 UCAS points and a
degree in Digital and Technology Solutions. four partner universities. 104 UCAS points. C / 4 grade or above is required in maths.
20 21Degree level apprenticeships:
Since their introduction in 2015, degree There are currently over 70 different job
apprenticeships have continued to grow roles in a variety of industries available to
INDUSTRY / JOB ROLE LEVEL
in both the number of firms choosing to choose from. See table below. Education and Childcare
offer them and the range of industries Teacher 6
and jobs available. Standard F Framework Engineering and manufacturing
Aerospace engineer 6
INDUSTRY / JOB ROLE LEVEL Aerospace software development engineer 6
Business and Administration Control / technical support engineer 6
Chartered manager 6 Electrical / electronic technical support engineer 6
Project manager 6 Embedded electronic systems design and development 6
engineer
Senior leader master’s degree apprenticeship 7
Food and drink advanced engineer 6
Care Services Manufacturing engineer 6
Social worker 6 Non-destructive testing engineer 6
Construction Nuclear scientist and nuclear engineer 6
Architect 7 Ordnance, munitions and explosives (OME) professional 6
Architectural assistant 6 Packaging professional 6
Building services design engineer 6 Postgraduate engineer 7
Building services engineering site management 6 Power engineer 7
Chartered surveyor 6 Process automation engineer 7
Civil engineer 6 Product design and development engineer 6
Civil engineering site management 6 Rail & rail systems principal engineer 7
Geospatial mapping and science 6 Rail & rail systems senior engineer 6
Senior / head of facilities management 6 Risk and safety management professional 7
Construction Management 6 F Science industry process/plant engineer 6
Creative and Design Systems engineering masters’ level 7
Broadcast and media systems engineer 6 Health and Science
Outside broadcasting engineer 7 Advanced clinical practitioner 7
Broadcasting Technology 6 F Clinical trials specialist 6
Digital Food industry technical professional 6
Cyber security technical professional 6 Healthcare science practitioner 6
Data scientist 6 Laboratory scientist 6
Digital and technology solution specialist 7 Midwife 6
Digital and technology solutions professional 6 Occupational therapist 6
22 23INDUSTRY / JOB ROLE LEVEL Apprentice Framework versus The reason for this change is to ensure
Apprentice Standards students have all the skills required to be
Operating department practitioner 6 job ready at the end of their apprenticeship.
Paramedic 6 By 2020 / 2021, Apprentice Frameworks
will be replaced by Apprentice Standards, Because the Apprentice Framework used a
Physiotherapist 6 modular approach to assessing skills, some
which focus on quality learning with an
Podiatrist 6 end of apprenticeship assessment to students were tested (and passed) early on,
Prosthetist / orthotist 6 confirm competence. Almost all degree but did not use these skills again and had
Registered nurse – degree (NMC 2010) 6 level apprenticeships are already using forgotten them by the end of the appren-
Regulatory affairs specialist 7 Apprentice Standards. ticeship. Therefore, despite qualification,
they weren’t job ready.
Legal, Finance and Accounting
“
Accountancy / Taxation Professional 7
Actuary 7
Chartered legal executive 6
Financial Services Professional
Internal audit professional
Licensed conveyancer
6
7
6
I knew I wanted to take a degree and
become a chartered surveyor and felt
that an apprenticeship would give me an
“
Professional economist 6 advantage finding a job after I qualified.
Relationship manager (banking) 6
Senior compliance / risk specialist 6
Senior insurance professional 6
Senior investment / commercial banking professional 7
Solicitor 7
Protective Services
Police constable (degree) 6
Sales, Marketing and Procurement
Business to business sales professional 6
Digital marketer 6
Marketing manager 6
Retail leadership 6
Transport and Logistics
Supply chain leadership professional 6
Data as at 15 March 2019
National Apprenticeships Services
24 25Degree - university or apprenticeship?
With the introduction of degree enable students to study subject areas university degrees offer plenty of flexibility Style of learning
apprenticeships in 2015, apprentice- that interest them and to tailor their with how students manage their study Although largely dependent on the type
ships now provide a viable alternative degree during their study by opting for time, but times for study will be limited of university and the chosen course,
to university in gaining a full degree certain modules as their interests evolve. when also working. Holiday periods are full time students are likely to be better
qualification. Degree apprenticeships In contrast, degree apprenticeships are a significant differentiator. University suited to classroom and teacher led
are a relatively new addition to the far more focused and industry-specific students will have around 14 weeks’ learning. Degree apprenticeships offer
range of options available for school and the university and location of study holiday per year, but apprentices will have a more vocational and applied learning
is limited to the universities working with only four or five. Some university appren- environment where much of the learning
leavers and it’s important to under-
the employer. ticeships offer the opportunity of full-time and training is done on the job.
stand the pros and cons of opting
academic study during university term
for one route over another: there are The student experience time, and full time work during the holiday
benefits and drawbacks. Finances
‘Student life’ will be different for an periods.
Degree apprenticeships are fully funded
Choice apprentice compared to a full-time by the government and the employer
student. Whilst degree apprentices will Direction
With over 1,500 different degree titles, and apprentices are paid a wage for their
experience some aspects of campus Degree apprenticeships enable students to time. Apprentices usually complete their
traditional degrees offer far greater variety life, it will be different to those students develop the skills and knowledge needed
in the choice of courses, subjects and apprenticeship debt free. A traditional
fully immersed / living on campus. Most for specific jobs and careers. They are an degree will cost students around £9,000 a
modules available. Traditional degrees excellent choice for school leavers who year excluding their living (“maintenance”)
have a clear idea of the type of job role and expenses. Low interest loans, scholarships
career they would like to do. In contrast, and bursaries are provided by the govern-
university degree courses remain relatively ment, but it is likely that a full time student
open and provide a springboard to a range will graduate with a sizeable debt.
of career prospects after graduation.
Summary
Employability
Apprenticeships have changed consider-
One of the biggest advantages apprentices ably over the last few decades and higher
achieve over their peers who have similar and degree apprenticeships are now an
level qualifications obtained through attractive alternative to full-time university
university is that they will have developed courses. Degree apprenticeships have
many commercially desirable soft skills. also opened up routes into jobs which
First-hand experience of meeting work previously, could only be entered by
deadlines, forming professional relation- obtaining a degree through university.
ships with colleagues at many different
levels, building rapport and trust with
external stakeholders, and corresponding
(whether by email, phone call or in
meetings) in a work environment is highly
valuable for future employers.
26 27Is an apprenticeship the right choice?
ADVANTAGES CONSIDERATIONS
Apprenticeships provide focused and Apprenticeships may narrow options early
applied training for those who already on. Your child will need to have a fairly clear Questions to ask:
have a strong interest in a job or industry. idea of the type of career they wish to pursue.
Does your child have a clear idea of the type of
Not everyone is suited to university style It may be difficult for your child to career or job they want to pursue?
learning and apprenticeships provide combine studying with working.
a practical approach to obtaining Is your child more suited to an applied and
qualifications. The salary of an apprentice can be quite hands-on working environment?
low and your child will also need to
Apprenticeships provide paid employ- consider financing their travel and living Is your child organised and able to balance
ment. In addition, your child will leave expenses if they are not living at home. work with academic study?
debt free. Furthermore, your child may need to pay
back their course fees if they choose to Will your child perform better under the
Apprenticeships develop key transferable leave their apprenticeship early. guidance of a supervisor in a work environment?
skills which are considered lacking in the
labour market. Your child may feel that they are missing out Will your child enjoy the combination of
on the ‘student life’ offered at universities. different learning environments?
Apprenticeships may provide future However, some universities and colleges
employment within the company and still offer their degree apprentices a strong Does your child enjoy practical / active
working within an organisation may student experience. homework assignments?
reveal job roles they did not know
existed. Student fayres and networking events Has your child undertaken any paid or
at university enable students to explore voluntary work and did they enjoy this?
Gaining work experience and on the job different career routes that they were not
training may provide your child with a aware of when leaving school. Don’t worry if your child is still unsure which
competitive advantage when applying for option is right for them. Students can apply for
full time employment. Many companies provide graduate degree and higher apprenticeships at the same time
schemes for university leavers on as applying to university through UCAS. Details
Some students flourish with the responsi- completion of their degree. on how to apply are covered in chapter 3.
bility and structure of an apprenticeship.
Entering the work place at an early age
Degree apprenticeships offer the chance may lead to fatigue.
to gain a BA or BSc without incurring
the debts associated with studying at Degree apprenticeships are still quite
university. new, so there is only a limited number of
vacancies available at the moment.
28 29George Alonge
Why did you choose an What have you enjoyed the
apprenticeship? most?
I really enjoyed economics and maths I really enjoy working with the most
at school, so looking at career routes in up-to-date technologies in this industry.
finance seemed right. My careers advisor I had the chance to use tools such as
encouraged me to attend a student careers predictive analytics - a type of artificial
evening organised by Deloitte and this was intelligence to help produce quality
when I first heard about apprenticeships. audit outcomes. It didn’t take long to
I really liked what they had to say and feel like I was another colleague as
discovered that KPMG, EY and PwC were all opposed to an apprentice.
offering the same thing.
What are your future
How did you find your aspirations?
apprenticeship? I’m now working towards my level 7 ACA
I applied for three apprenticeships qualification to become a registered
directly through the company websites. chartered accountant. Once I’m quali-
They provide a lot of information on fied there may be a chance to work for
the different apprenticeships they my company full-time.
offer, when and how to apply. I wasn’t
successful applying for the appren- Any tips to a student starting
ticeship in accounting, but one of the their apprenticeship journey?
companies encouraged me to apply for
their apprenticeship in auditing. Apprenticeships can be highly competi-
tive, especially when applying for those
What’s surprised you about offered by some of the bigger and well
being an apprentice? known companies. If you have an early
idea of what you might like to do after
I was really surprised by just how much
school, try to get some relevant work
responsibility is given to you in your first
experience to help strengthen your
few years of the apprenticeship. In year
application and provide you with things
1 I was provided with regular training to
to talk about during the interview. A lot
help develop my professional skills such
of the big companies also offer pres-
as presenting and managing groups of
entation evenings about the different
people. By year 3 I was actually using
programmes they offer - use these as an
some of these skills!
opportunity to speak to the right people.
30 31Advice from schools Summary
Apprenticeships are not only about
The quality of qualifications getting further qualifications,
obtained through apprenticeships they’re about learning how to
is as good as those qualifications adapt to the work place and
obtained through universities learning key transferable skills.
and colleges. Don’t feel that
apprenticeships are inferior - they Apprenticeships range from
offer the opportunity to learn through 1 level 2 to level 7, typically last
application rather than just theory.
1-5 years and offer different
qualification types upon
successful completion;
Considerations for league table
placements are less relevant with
Apprenticeships include
degree apprenticeships. Most
2 paid work with an element of
companies work with just two or study;
three partner universities and it
is the reputation of the company Degree apprenticeships
that drives the quality of the 3 result in a Bachelor of Arts or
apprenticeship.
Bachelor of Science;
Apprenticeships are very
4 demanding with few holidays,
a challenging job role and
Further studies in the academic the need to study outside of
environment are not for everyone. working hours; however, they
Students who learn more success- can be immensely rewarding
fully in practical situations and offer a very good chance
are likely to do better under an of post apprenticeship
apprenticeship structure. employment.
32 33“
Finding the right apprenticeship I was never keen on school and I
didn’t want to stay on for sixth-
36 form. A level 3 apprenticeship got
Researching apprenticeships studying for an NVQ in Design
“
me straight into work whilst also
What should my child consider when and Technology.
choosing an apprenticeship?
42
Finding the right
apprenticeship
How can my child go about finding the
apprenticeship they want?
44
Top 10 apprenticeship
employers
Chapter 2
48
Summary
35Researching apprenticeships RESEARCH STARTS BY DECIDING
WHAT LEVEL APPRENTICESHIP
Apprenticeships vary in the qualifica- In order to apply for a post-sixth form
YOUR CHILD WOULD LIKE
tions that can be achieved, length of apprenticeship, they will have to have TO TAKE
commitment and balance between achieved Level 3 status (two A levels or
work and study. They may involve equivalent) and in some cases (even for
moving away from home. With so many lower level apprenticeships), they may
options, it may be helpful to consider need to have exceeded this.
the various elements independently.
What sectors are they interested in?
What level of apprenticeship Next, they should decide on their area of
is appropriate? interest and see what apprenticeships are
First, your child needs to decide which available within that sector. If they don’t
level of apprenticeship they wish to take. know where their areas of interest lie, it’s
This will be determined by two things: time to do some research! Of course, careers
advisers can help at school, but they might
• Having the required level of qualific- want to jump online themselves. If they get
ations to move on to the next level;
bored reading about a certain sector, chances
• How long they intend to commit to are that’s an indication the sector isn’t for
their apprenticeship. them. Getting some work experience is also a
good way of deciding whether reality match-
After sixth form, degree apprenticeships es up to the theory of a dream job.
offer an attractive alternative to studying
full time at university, whilst still obtaining Will the apprenticeship help them
a BA or BSc. Like university, this will mean get the career they want?
committing to three or four years study and
There’s no need to be too specific about
– unlike university – it will mean working in
the job or role they ultimately want, but it’s
a real job too!
important that they can see a correlation
between their apprenticeship, the areas of
Alternatively, they may opt to take a
study, the experience it will give them, and
different type of apprenticeship (i.e. higher
where they want to be in the future (say
at Level 4 or 5). They will still obtain a
five years’ time).
recognised professional qualification (but
not the equivalent of a degree) and their
commitment to the apprenticeship will Useful links
be shorter (between one and two years
usually). Later they could choose to build
on their apprenticeship to gain further Amazing
GOV UK
qualifications up to masters level. Apprenticeship
36 37Apprenticeship areas and careers
Suggested careers: Suggested careers:
Agriculture, horticulture and animal trainer, arborist, environment Engineering and manufacturing energy & resource management,
animal care consultant, golf course manager, technologies engineering supervisor, mechanic, new
horticultural technician product development manager,
operations manager, photo imaging,
structural engineer
Suggested careers: Suggested careers:
Arts, media and publishing broadcasting engineer, culture and Health, public services army services, beauty therapist, dental
heritage venue operations, games testing, and care nurse, healthcare consultant, medical
games testing, visual effects technical researcher, medical writers, nurse,
director, games testing physiotherapist, social worker, veterinary
receptionist
Suggested careers: Suggested careers:
Business, administration and accountant, banking relationship Information and digital and technology solutions
law manager, chartered manager, company communication technology specialist, flight simulator instructor,
secretary, economist, finance manager, ICT network manager, ICT technician, IT
HR consultant, operations manager, manager, PR consultant, school
project manager, solicitor technician, software programmer,
technical architect
Suggested careers: Suggested careers:
Construction, planning and the architect, civil engineer, conservations Leisure, travel and tourism, retail cabin crew, casino director, hairdresser,
built environment officer, estates manager, town planner, and commercial enterprise hotel manager, restaurateur,
surveyor, sustainability consultant retail buyer, retail leadership, travel agent
Suggested careers: Suggested careers:
Education and training internal systems trainer, learning and Science and mathematics aerospace engineer, laboratory assistant,
development consultant, lecturer, play- medical adviser, pharmacist, research
group leader, teacher, training and quality scientist, surveyor, teacher
management expert
38 39Apprenticeships and disability
In order to expand their pool of top What financial support is available? adjustments may include providing addi- qualification or entry requirements, there
available talent and benefit from a tional time during tests for employees with may be some flexibility. Any concerns
Access to Work (“AtW”) funding is available learning needs or by providing appropriate should be discussed with the training
workforce that reflects the diverse to support apprentices in the workplace
range of customers they serve, resources, such as voice-activated software, provider who, if appropriate, can arrange
providing money towards extra costs, such a laptop or a dictaphone. an approved assessment.
many UK employers offer support as travel, specially adapted equipment
and equipment to help apprentices or support workers. The money does not Meeting minimum standards in Finding local opportunities
with special educational needs and have to be paid back and is only available English and Maths
disability (“SEND”) to do their jobs. for additional costs, not expenses that any Local authority websites, in “The Local
This includes making reasonable apprentice incurs. If SEND prevents meeting the minimum Offer” section, include details about
standard in English and Maths needed to supporting young people with SEND to get
adjustments during the application
To enable employers and trainers to make obtain the appropriate apprenticeship into work, including apprenticeships.
and interview process.
reasonable adjustments to provide a
Look out for companies displaying the suitable training and work environment, THE NUMBER OF UK DISABLED
“disability confident” logo on job / appren- there is extra funding via the Government
ticeship adverts. These companies have and the Education and Skills Funding PEOPLE IN APPRENTICESHIPS
signed up to the Government led scheme Agency (“ESFA”) for those employing HAS MORE THAN TRIPLED
designed to recruit and retain disabled young people that previously were in care,
people and people with long term health had an education and healthcare plan IN THE LAST TEN YEARS
conditions for their skills and talent. There (“EHCP”), or require adjustments under
are three levels of accreditation aligned the Equality Act.
with bronze, silver and gold standards:
committed, employer and leader. Making reasonable adjustments
Under the Equality Act (2010) all UK
employers have a duty to make reason-
able adjustments for their disabled
employees. Whilst it may be unreasonable
to expect an employer to install a lift for a
wheelchair user, it is reasonable to expect
the employer to provide a ground floor
office or work space. Other reasonable
Useful links
GOV. UK
Disability The Local
Access to BASE
Rights UK Offer
work
40 41How to find the right apprenticeship
There’s a wide range of ways to seek Be warned! Applications to well-known
out apprenticeships and we recom- international companies (such as
mend using a selection of options Amazon, Coca-Cola, Facebook, Google,
rather than relying on one. Virgin) will be highly competitive;
however, it might be a good starting
Government website point for identifying what’s included in Apprenticeship checklist
the apprenticeship and seeking out other
Most apprenticeships are posted on the
companies that provide similar content.
Government’s website. By creating an With or without a university component?
The descriptor names can then be used
account, your child can set up alerts and
in search functions on the government
filters to see opportunities that are of How long does your child want to commit
website or job boards. Not all companies
most interest to them and to be emailed to studying?
offer apprenticeships.
when new opportunities arise. However,
not all apprenticeships will appear. Degree level apprenticeship or other
Job boards
apprenticeship?
Industry sector National job agencies will also advertise
apprenticeships and options can be Is there a valuable role at workplace?
Its smart to check apprenticeships
narrowed to review within local ranges
directly on company, university or college
or job types, this might be a particularly What skills and subjects will be learned?
websites. If your child doesn’t know
good way to seek out apprenticeships in
which of these sites to select, then they
level 3-5 range. What types of career will be available
should first do some research on which
industry sector may be of interest, and afterwards?
Reviews
then find companies within this sector.
To find out what other students have Does the provider have a quality statement?
Companies direct thought about an apprenticeship and
how they rate them, there are reviews on Is the provider’s reputation solid?
Another alternative is for them to identify
Rate my Apprenticeship. (i.e. knowledge/skills/behaviours)
companies that are of interest and check
their websites for apprenticeships.
Are they assessed using Standards or
Framework?
Useful links
GOV. UK Apprenticeship Not going to
Search Search
UCAS Uni
42 43Top 10 apprenticeship employers: 2019 APPRENTICESHIPS WITH THE
TOP 20 EMPLOYERS WILL BE
VERY COMPETITIVE
1. 6.
2. 7.
3. 8.
4. 9.
5. 10.
Based on 4,000 reviews - statistics compiled by www.ratemyapprenticeship.co.uk
For a list of the top 100 apprenticeship employers click here.
44 45Jamal Springer
Why did you choose an Were there any difficult
apprenticeship? moments?
I really like the work element of doing an It has been hard balancing work with
apprenticeship. I feel this will give me a study. I have now started my third year of
headstart when applying for a job next year. the apprenticeship and I have some big
assessments coming up in order to pass
How did you find your my NVQ. I find myself having to revise at
apprenticeship? the weekends.
I saw a poster in my school’s careers
department about apprenticeships at What are your future
Aldi. I was intrigued and started to do my aspirations?
own research when I eventually came In the second and third year of my
across the Government search engine for apprenticeship I get to do six four-
apprenticeships. I was surprised by just month placements in different depart-
how many apprenticeships there were. ments of the company. I really enjoyed
my time in operations and will look to
find a job in something similar.
What has been your most
enjoyable moment? Any tips to a student
I have really enjoyed working as part of a considering an apprenticeship?
team. There are three other apprentices Make sure you research carefully about
working in the same department as me and the apprenticeships you apply for. I have
we have become good friends. My mentor really enjoyed my apprenticeship and I
and work supervisor have also been great am excited about my future. However, I
and we regularly go out for team dinners have one friend who didn’t realise that
and drinks. At first I was concerned about their apprenticeship would involve a
not experiencing the ‘student life’ some of three month placement in the compa-
my friends would have at university, but all I ny’s auditing department - they hated
hear from them is how they have no money maths at school!
to go out. Being an apprentice has been
great socially.
46 47Advice from apprentices Summary
Choosing the right apprenticeship
takes research.
If you are doing a longer appren-
ticeship check to see if there is Decide which level of appren-
a buddy support system with 1 ticeship – this may be based
apprentices in the year above you. on your child’s existing qualifi-
This really helped me settled in cations and / or how long they
quickly, because they understood will commit to study;
all the things I was worried about.
Find out what interests them
2 – is it a specific industry,
company or job type;
I initially started a level 4 appren-
ticeship after school, because I only Read the apprenticeship
wanted to do one extra year of 3 offering in detail – what
study. I enjoyed it so much I went qualification will be obtained,
on to level 5 and was awarded a terms of study leave and job
HND. Check whether your compa- role;
ny offers the opportunity to extend
your apprenticeship.
Check the apprenticeship is
4 approved and accredited by
the Government to ensure
quality.
Don’t use the financial motives
as the main reason for choosing
an apprenticeship. Working and
studying full-time is tough and
unless you are passionate about
the job you are doing an appren-
ticeship might not be for you.
48 49“
The application process
My school provided a lot of
help about how to apply for an
52
The application process
What’s involved in applying for an
apprenticeship, but I still needed
to research the company and job
role myself.
“
apprenticeship?
56
Interviews
How can my child stand out from
others?
62
Apprenticeship Offer
What needs to be checked when an
offer is made?
Chapter 3
66
Summary
51Applying for an apprenticeship
The application process is very the year. This might feel disconcerting Final dates Employers are trying to ascertain whether
similar to applying for a conven- if your child’s peers have all made Apprenticeships will advertise a deadline you child can:
tional job and, with the exception of their university applications and even or final date for applications, and your • Present their ideas and thoughts clearly
degree apprenticeships, opportuni- received offers, whereas your child child should try to apply as early as so they are easily understood;
ties can arise at any time of the year. has yet to secure an apprenticeship, possible. Unlike UCAS, where the time of
but the system is different because • Obtain core competency in English and
Your child will need a CV, to be able submission has no bearing on whether Maths;
to complete an application form, be apprenticeships are tied to genuine jobs. or not a place at university may be
Don’t worry that your child might miss obtained, with apprenticeships, some • Assimilate, digest and learn the
interview ready and may need to
out; they can set up alerts so they know companies will close opportunities information provided during the
complete aptitude tests. Plenty of
when new opportunities in their areas of ahead of the advertised deadlines if they apprenticeship, both in theory and in
practise is a good way to prepare. interest emerge. practise;
have enough appropriate candidates.
• Demonstrate a genuine interest in the
Timelines For degree apprenticeships, some subject matter/industry area;
companies may have set applications Application process
Unlike university application where there
windows i.e. January application for The application process is much more • Reveal what kind of thinker are they:-
is a fixed process that takes place at the
September intake (Unilever), others offer closely aligned to job applications than imaginative, creative, logical, rational;
same time each year, applications for
apprenticeships come up throughout the opportunity to pre-register (BAE). university applications. The longer the • Apply themselves to different
apprenticeship, the more rigorous the situations;
application process is likely to be. It • Work and integrate well with others;
APPLY EARLY - DON’T differs between organisations and may
• Identify values and ambitions;
include:
WAIT FOR THE DEADLINE • Show they be a good fit within their
• Online application form – may also
require a Curriculum Vitae (“CV”); organisation;.
• Online competency tests (these can
be in any or all of English, Maths,
logic, personality assessments, verbal
reasoning);
• Video response (usually this takes Key tip:
the format of your child answering
questions that appear on screen, rather If your child’s contact details change,
than a two-way video interview); it’s important they update their appli-
cations, registration websites, CV etc
• An assessment day, which may include as soon as possible. If they don’t,
group activity as well as individual they could miss out on an offer.
interviews.
52 53Writing the application
CV Template
There are likely to be several elements Writing a CV Alex Dunmore
to an apprenticeship application A CV is a brief synopsis of experience and 25 Shrewsberry Terrace, London EC2M 5BY
and each serves a slightly different qualifications. Whilst it should reflect the Tel: 07712 256578 Email: alex.dunmore@gmail.com
purpose. Understanding what the personal style of the person it describes,
application form, CV and cover letter all CVs should include: Personal
are meant to achieve will help them • Personal information, including Motivated and adaptable team player looking to gain
include the right information. address and contact details; customer services experience within a global hospitality
• Education and Qualifications; company. I am a keen traveller and eventually hoping to
The application form work internationally, preferably based overseas.
It’s always best to look through the appli- • Professional and voluntary experience with
cation online, and then write answers in the most recent job first, whether voluntary, Education and Qualifications
Word (or elsewhere), prepare and spell paid, temporary or work placements;
St Mary’s High Sep 2012 - current
check them thoroughly, before copying • Skills, strengths and achievements –
and pasting into the online form. This including a full clean driving licence if • Studying for x2 A levels in French and English and a
avoids risking a computer crash and losing they have one; BTEC in Business
the work, gives thinking time and allows • CVs should not exceed two sides of A4; • 8 A-C GCSE passes in English, Maths, French, History, IT,
comparisons between different questions Ethics, German, Science
so that answers are not repeated. • Check for spelling mistakes!
• Conversationally fluent in French
• Use a professional font which is easy to
Answers will be different depending on read.
the apprenticeship. Preparation for one Experience
apprenticeship will not be sufficient for Covering letter Norbury Veterinary Surgery Jul 2017 - current
application to another (although it may
form a good basis). Applications should Where possible, your child should include Volunteer on Saturday mornings working alongside
be tailored according to the specification a covering letter along with their CV. CVs a vet during open surgery. This includes helping pet
outlined in the advert and they should are generic whereas a covering letter gives owners and their pets, measuring out medication, noting
check the company website for any them an opportunity to specify why this summaries of visits. Making pet owners feel at ease is
specific advice and tips offered. Check particular apprenticeship appeals to them a very important part of this role as they are often very
your child has made their application as and what qualities they have that make stressed when their pets are ill.
relevant as possible to the job in question. them a good match. Make sure they read
the job description carefully and use the Skills and achievements
Giving examples is a key differentiator in letter to illustrate how their skills match up • Face to face customer experience sometimes under
applications. Make sure your child always to what has been requested. It is important stressful situations
gives examples to support their statements to be specific and use examples of what
• Three months living in France only speaking in French
and does not make unsubstantiated asser- they have already done not to theorise
tions such as “I am a great team leader” about what they’d like to do in the future. • Centre-forward in the school basketball team, so work well
If necessary, they should explain why they supporting others
and “I am a good communicator” without
showing why they hold this opinion. would be happy to relocate.
54 55You can also read
