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FAQs Frequently Asked Questions
Q. What is the difference between an Apprenticeship and an Advanced Apprenticeship?
A. Apprenticeships usually last at least a year and the apprentice works towards a National Vocational Qualification at Level 2, Key Skills and in most cases a technical certificate. Advanced Apprenticeships are at a higher level and usually last at least two years and the advanced apprentice works towards a National Vocational Qualification at Level 3, Key Skills and a technical certificate. Advanced apprentices will normally have some experience in the relevant industry or occupation as well as a good basic education.
Q. Who can be an apprentice?
A. There are no set entry requirements for Apprenticeships. Apprentices just need to be living in England and not taking part in full-time education. It should be noted that Apprenticeships are fully funded by the Learning & Skills Council for applicants aged 16 - 18 and there is limited funding available for applicants aged 16 - 24. For applicants who are not eligible for government funding an Apprenticeship programme will cost between £3,000 and £15,000, depending on the industry. Graduates are not eligible for Apprenticeship programmes.
Q. How do Apprenticeships work?
A. The employer pays the apprentice a wage and gives the apprentice on-the-job training which allows the apprentice to achieve National Vocational Qualifications (NVQs). The apprentice also spends time with a learning organisation, gaining key skills that'll be useful in the job market - like working in teams, problem-solving, communication and using new technology. In addition, the apprentice studies for a technical certificate, a recognised qualification which gives further knowledge and understanding of the apprentice's job.
Q. Do Apprentices learn at work or at other places as well?
A. Apprentices usually spend the majority of their time at work. The amount of time that is spent away from work can vary greatly between different industries and different training organisations. Use the search function on this site and check how training is organised by training organisations that offer apprenticeships in your chosen occupation.
Q. How long does it take to complete an apprenticeship?
A. There is no set time to complete an Apprenticeship as they vary widely in content and size. The length of time taken will depend on the ability of the individual apprentice and the employer's requirements. An Apprenticeship will usually take anything from 1 to 3 years.
Q. Who organises apprenticeships?
A. Training organisations can be private organisations or local colleges. These organisations receive funding to help with the costs of apprenticeships and organise and monitor the training programme.
Q. Do training organisations find jobs for people who want to be apprentices?
A. Some training organisations offer this service. Use the search function on this site and check the details of the services of training organisations offering your chosen occupation.
Q. Do training organisations find new recruits for employers that want to take on an apprentice?
A. Most training organisations offer this service. Use the search function on this site and check the details of your chosen organisation.
Q. How can you find the right apprenticeship for you?
A. The search function on this site enables you to select the nearest town to where you live or work and the occupation that you are interested in. The results display information about the training organisations that are best suited to help you. You can then contact these organisations by e-mail or using the on-line application form or e-mail link.
Q. Are there Apprenticeships in every industry?
A. Look at the occupations page on this site to see the range of Apprenticeships that are available in Sussex.
Q. If I want to do an Apprenticeship but I'm not sure which occupation to choose - what should I do?
A. Firstly you can look at the listed occupations on the occupations page on this site. This will give you information on what different occupations involve. It is also advisable to talk to a Connexions Personal Adviser. See our links page for details on the Connexions service and for other useful sources of information.
Q. How are Apprenticeships developed and who sets the course content?
A. Apprenticeships are designed by business for business. Organisations called Sector Skills Councils composed of business representatives from the relevant sector or industry decide on the course content within their own sector. And because they genuinely understand each business sector, the training will be relevant to the job.
Q. How much do Apprentices get paid?
A. Most apprentices are employed by companies and are paid a salary that reflects their skills, experience, age and ability. There is now a set minimum of £80 per week for employed apprentices.
Q. Do Apprentices get holidays?
A. Like many other employees, you will receive at least 20 days holiday per year (and bank holidays). Your individual entitlement will be detailed in your terms of employment or training agreement. Just like any other job, your employer will have rules about how far in advance holidays need to be booked, and times that holidays cannot be taken.
Q. What qualifications do Apprentices achieve?
A. Apprentices get a package of qualifications - a National Vocational Qualification (NVQ), a technical certificate such as a BTEC National Diploma or a City & Guilds Progression Award, and Key Skills qualifications. Apprenticeships lead to either an NVQ Level 2 or an NVQ Level 3. Apprenticeships can also help you to enter higher education.
Q. How much does it cost an employer to take on an apprentice?
A. The cost to an employer will be the weekly wage or training allowance that is paid to the apprentice. The cost will also depend on if the Apprentice is eligible for government funding.
Q. Are Apprenticeships open to a company's existing employees?
A. Yes.
Q. Do apprentices have to complete their training with their employer and do employers have to keep the apprentice to the end of their training?
A. Obviously the ideal situation is one where the apprentice and the employer stay together for the duration of the Apprenticeship. In reality this can't always be the case and there must be flexibility on both sides. If an apprentice leaves their employment they can continue with their apprenticeship elsewhere depending on the circumstances.
Q. Are all apprentices employed?
A. Mostly, yes, especially at Advanced level. Some training organisations do organise Apprenticeships on a 'trainee only' basis where the apprentice does not have a job but a training agreement. This type of arrangement is becoming increasingly rare. Use the search function on this site and check the details of your chosen organisation to see if they provide this service.
Q. Are apprenticeships popular?
A. Since their introduction in 1994, over 1 million young people have taken part in the Apprenticeship programme. Currently over a quarter of a million Apprentices are in training.
Q. What if a person needs more training and support before starting an Apprenticeship?
A. There is a Pre-Apprenticeship programme called Entry to Employment (e2e). There are training organisations in Sussex that offer this programme. Contact your local Connexions Office or call SCTP on 01273 771922 for details of organisations that offer these training programmes.
Q What is a National Vocational Qualification?
A. NVQs are qualifications that train somebody in the skills and knowledge that are needed to do a job. To get the qualification a trainee will need to show that they can use their skills effectively in real work situations by proving this to an independent assessor. NVQs are available in most occupations and can be taken on their own or as part of an Apprenticeship.
Q. What is Education Maintenance Allowance (EMA)?
A. Education Maintenance Allowance (EMA) is an allowance to support young people in post GCSE education, whose household income is under £30,000. Young people can get £10, £20, or £30 a week depending on your household income. EMA applies to academic and vocational courses, at school or college, which involve at least 12 hours of guided learning per week and is available for up to three years if needed. £100 Bonuses are awarded depending on the progress made with the course. EMA does not affect other benefits paid to parents or carers or students.
Q. How is the Education Maintenance Allowance (EMA) paid?
A. EMA pays up to £30 a week directly into your bank account. You'll receive your EMA payment every week of your course as long as you turn up to your classes.
The cash can cover items such as travel costs, books or equipment. It's your money - so you decide how to spend it. Visit the EMA website at www.dfes.gov.uk/financialhelp/ema/ for all the information you need. You can also speak to someone over the phone on their free helpline number 080 810 16 2 19.