Questions About Apprenticeships

FAQs

• When can I apply for an apprenticeship?

  You can register your interest for an apprenticeship as soon as you decide this is your next step. Many of our ‘live’ vacancies are looking for people to start almost straight away (unless they specify otherwise), so applying to an actual position should be saved for the time you are free to attend interviews and aged 16 or over. Registering your interest allows you to work with our recruiters before making an application which could be an added benefit.

• How old must I be to start an apprenticeship?

  You cannot start an apprenticeship until you are 16 years old. There is no upper age limit to applying for apprenticeships. If you are 15 and in your final year of school, you can register your interest and we will work with you until you are able to start an apprenticeship.

• What industries offer apprenticeships?

  We offer many apprenticeship programmes, however please visit gov.uk to search for apprenticeships in your area.

• How long does an apprenticeship last?

  Apprenticeships take no less than one year and possibly up to four years. The length of programme depends on the level you're studying at and the sector in which you are learning.

• How much would I get paid?

  Pay varies from company to company and it depends on the level of the apprenticeship, so it’s best to research online and see what different companies are paying their apprentices. There is an apprenticeship minimum wage which changes every April. In 2021, the minimum an apprentice can earn an hour is £4.30.

• Would I get holidays?

  Yes, once you’re working for a company on an apprenticeship you will get all staff benefits such as holidays and eligibility to join their pension scheme. Holiday entitlements vary from company to company but as a general rule you may get 20 days holiday in a full-time position plus statutory bank holidays.

• How do I apply?

  Start by looking at our apprenticeship pages online and see what area you’d like to work in. Give us a call and one of our members of staff can help guide you further 0800 121 8317 or register your interest.

• What if I don’t get accepted the first time I apply?

  Don’t worry – we always suggest to have a plan B in place. Apply for a college place in an area that interests you at the same time as applying for an apprenticeship. It’s ok to do this and it will give you more chances of success. If you end up on the college course, there’s often the opportunity to swap courses once you’ve begun, when there may be an apprenticeship offer open. Apprenticeships are a competitive market, keep smiling, keep applying and keep working hard on your interview techniques – all these things give you a better chance of success.

• Do I find my own employer or do you help with this?

  We help match potential apprentices to employers looking to recruit. We can also help if you have found your own employer but need a training provider to provide the apprenticeship programme. Whatever your circumstance, we will do everything we can to help.

• Will I still have the job at the end of the apprenticeship or do I move on?

  Generally the aim is to keep you on in the company as they’ve invested in you and want your new skills to stay in the business but it does depend on the situation at the time. Your best bet is to do your best within your apprenticeship, work hard and demonstrate to your employer why they were right to employ you. If they really cannot offer you a position after your apprenticeship, you will have developed new skills and knowledge that are likely to be easily transferable to a new employment opportunity. A great reference from your apprenticeship employer would look great too.

• How can I find out more?

  Give us a call today on 0800 121 8317 and ask to speak to someone about the latest apprenticeships and always keep an eye open on our website to see when the next apprenticeship open event is planned.