How does an apprenticeship work?

Apprenticeships are special – and that’s not just because you get paid to study! Unlike most other types of jobs, you’ll follow a set programme of work during your apprenticeship. It’ll run for a fixed period of time and teach you the skills and behaviours needed for your role.

In summary – an apprenticeship is a real job where you learn, gain experience, and get paid. You’re an employee with a contract of employment and holiday leave. By the end of your apprenticeship, you’ll have the right skills and knowledge needed for your chosen career at the level you have studied. You can then progress to the next level of apprenticeship and progress your career further.

How long does an apprenticeship take to complete?

The minimum length of an apprenticeship is 12 months, although you complete one part-time for up to six years.

The length of an apprenticeship, like every other degree, is dictated by the occupation chosen and the level of certification sought. In either event, you are contributing to a specific career path, not just a subject area.

An apprenticeship at the intermediate Level 2 would most likely last 12-18 months, while an apprenticeship at the advanced Level 3 will most likely last 24 months. Higher-level apprenticeships can last three to five years… The length of the apprenticeship and the certifications earned depends on your apprenticeship level and sector. In the end, successful apprentices receive a certification of completion. You can see the duration of each of our apprenticeships on the apprenticeship course page.

What will happen during your apprenticeship?

Learning from your Personal Tutor

You will have your own dedicated Personal Tutor who will support you through regularly assessments, coaching & mentoring, reviewing your knowledge, skills & behaviours and observing your work practices. This will be through remote, face-to-face & online support.

Innovation in learning

Online learning resources will be available to help you build a portfolio of learning. You will also be able to access an interactive learning environment (Bud) which easily captures evidence of your learning, values and visions, has all the guidance and resources you will need.

Thinking of new ideas & sharing

You will learn how to generate new ideas and gain the confidence to share them with your Line Manager and team.
This will help build your capability and competence in your job role.

Working with your manager

You will have a close working relationship with line manager, who will give you regular skills and progress reviews.

Learning by yourself

Sometimes you will be learning remotely and self-directing your own study and research. Gaining confidence by learning through your own through practical application on the job. Online resources such as Bud will be available to help record your progress and provide learning resources.

Working in groups

During your programme, there will be interactive, high-energy group work and peer-to-peer learning.

We are rated as ‘excellent’