Introduction
An apprenticeship is a job where you learn while you work. You get real experience and also spend time studying.
Most apprenticeships take 1 to 5 years to finish. You can apply for an apprenticeship from the age of 16
As an apprentice you will:
- work with experienced staff
- learn sills for your job
- earn a wage and get holiday pay
- have time to study, usually one day a week
Ben tells us about his supported apprenticeship, what his role involves and more about his working life.
Levels of apprenticeship
Each apprenticeship has a level. This shows how advanced it is.
| Name | Level | Same as |
|---|---|---|
| NameIntermediate | Level2 | Same asGCSE |
| NameAdvanced | Level3 | Same asA level |
| NameHigher | Level4,5,6 and 7 | Same asFoundation degree or higher |
| NameDegree | Level6 and 7 | Same asBachelor’s or master’s degree |
Apprenticeships and Education Health and Care plans
You can apply for an apprenticeship if you have an Education, Health and Care (EHC) plan.
- Your training provider will be named in your plan
- Your plan will be reviewed every year
- Funding is available for apprentices aged 19 to 25 with an EHC plan
If you have learning difficulties or disabilities, you can still do an apprenticeship if you can meet the main job skills, sometimes called the occupational standard.
This means you need to be able to do the work needed for the role, with support if needed.
Some people may find the usual English and maths requirements hard. In these cases, you may not need to reach the standard level. Instead, you can work towards Entry Level 3 Functional Skills in English and maths.
This helps you to:
- build the basic skills you need for work and daily life
- complete your apprenticeship in a way that works for you
- focus on learning your job skills
The training provider will look at your needs and agree the right support and level with you.
If an apprenticeship is not right for you, there are other choices if you have an EHC plan. You could try a supported internship.
Find an apprenticeship
You can look for apprenticeships in these places:
- Somerset Council jobs page
- Somerset Skills and Learning website
- National Apprenticeship Finder website
- Local college websites
Local colleges include:
These colleges work with local businesses to offer apprenticeships.
Skill Up Somerset – Apprenticeship and Skills Advisory Service
Skill Up Somerset gives free, impartial advice about jobs, skills and training.
They can help young people understand the options to help them build skills, gain experience and move into employment.
They can help employers find the right skills solutions for their needs.
You can contact the team at:
Hello@skillupsomerset.org.uk