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Choices for Work

Apprenticeships

If you’re 16 – 24 you’re eligible to be considered for an apprenticeship. There are Apprenticeships in over 200 job areas, and all involve working in a job, learning ‘hands on’ and studying for qualifications like NVQ 2 or 3.

There are:

  • Apprenticeships
  • Advanced Apprenticeships
  • Professional Apprenticeships

Apprenticeships and Advanced Apprenticeships

You can look to do these sorts of apprenticeships after Year 11. There are no set entry qualifications to get an Apprenticeship, though you may need GCSEs A*-Cs for some.

Apprenticeships usually last 1 to 2 years, but it depends on your abilities and what your employer needs!

Professional Apprenticeships

Give you the chance to get a professional qualification in the work place along with the chance to study for a higher education qualification like a HND or a degree. Most professional apprentices will start their training after ‘A’ levels or the equivalent or having completed an Advanced Apprenticeship.

Apprenticeships are not covered by the National Minimum Wage legislation but most apprentices are paid and there’s a minimum wage of £80.00 per week.  Lots of apprenticeships will pay more than this.

Check out the latest apprenticeship vacancies at cnx2jobs, or talk to your Personal Adviser as some apprenticeships are very popular and in short supply.  Your Personal Adviser can tell you what’s available and help you to apply.

There is also information about organisations that offer apprenticeships in the local area at NWApprenticeships

Apprenticeships also has more information about apprenticeships and there is a national helpline 0800 015 0600 that you can contact.

The TUC has a leaflet about Your Rights as an Apprentice