1. How to apply

Applicants can apply for an Apprenticeship direct to Northbrook College or by talking to their careers (Connexions) personal adviser. When the application has been received the applicant is then invited for interview. APPLICATIONS ARE NOW INVITED FOR 2010. THE APPLICATION PROCESS IS NOW CLOSED FOR 2009.

2. Are all applicants interviewed and if so where/how does this happen?

All applicants are interviewed. The interview will normally take place in the college and will involve an initial assessment test.

3. Does training take place at the work place or at other places as well?

Apprentices attend college one day per week at Northbrook College and generally spend 4 days per week at work. Exception is Sport and Recreation where apprentices attend occasional one-day or evening workshops at a training centre or in the workplace.

4. Can a training programme be started at any point in the year?

The main start time is generally between September and Christmas for college based courses. However apprentices in Insurance, Motor Vehicle, Childcare and Sport and Recreation are able to start throughout the year. Contact the college for more information.

5. How much do apprentices normally get paid?

The minimum is £95 per week. Employers are encouraged to pay the rate for the job but it's up to the employer and the Apprentice to agree.

6. Are all apprentices employed from the start by their companies they train with?

Yes.

7. What help is there in finding a job?

Young people are encouraged to find their own work placement if possible, but the College will do all it can to assist in finding suitable employment.

8. Do you keep lists of current job vacancies?

Yes.

9. Are training programmes available to those people that are already employed?

Yes.

10. Are applicants referred by Connexions Personal Advisers considered for training programmes?

Yes.

11. Is it possible for applicants to be kept on a waiting list if a place on a training programme is not immediately available?

Not generally but this may be possible during parts of the academic year

12. How should employers make contact?

Employers can make contact by phone, e-mail, web site or in writing. We will talk to the employers about their training and recruitment requirements and either help them to recruit new staff or train their existing employees.

13. Is there any charge to employers?

No charge for apprentices aged 16 - 18. Currently in 2009/10 there is a £200 contribution required for age group 19 - 24.

14. What other services are offered?

There are many other training services available to students and employers. Take a look at the web site. www.northbrook.ac.uk

15. Are there any special entry requirements for the apprenticeships available through this organisation?

Northbrook College do have entry requirements to the following occupational areas: Electrical Installation - GCSE Grade C required in English and Maths; Carpentry and Brickwork - GCSE grade D or above preferred in English and Maths; Motor Vehicle courses - GCSE grade D or above preferred in English and Maths; Childcare - GCSE grade D or above preferred in English and Maths; Sport (Swimming) - GCSE grade D/E preferred in English and Maths.