A Parent’s Guide to Apprenticeships
As a parent you want your child to get the best possible start in their career. There are many options available to young people after they leave school, and this guide outlines information and benefits about Apprenticeships as a key route into a successful career.
What is an Apprenticeship?
An Apprenticeship is a real job with training which would allow your daughter or son to earn while they learn, whilst gaining a nationally recognised qualification. Apprenticeships take between one and five years to complete and cover a wide ranges of industries,
Benefits of doing an Apprenticeship
- Earn a salary;
- Train in the skills employers want;
- Excellent progression opportunities, whether looking to study further or climb the ranks within the workplace;
- Increased future earning potential;
- Learning at a pace suited to the individual with the support of a mentor;
- Paid holiday.
Entry Requirements
Apprenticeships are available to anyone over the age of 16. There are different entry requirements depending on the sector and the job.
Apprenticeship Levels
There are various levels of apprenticeship your son and daughter can apply for depending on their current skills and qualifications. Apprenticeships have equivalent educational levels:
Name | Level | Equivalent Educational Level |
Intermediate | 2 | 5 GCSE Passes at grades A*-C |
Advanced | 3 | 2 A Level passes |
Higher | 4,5,6 and 7 | Foundation degree and above |
Degree | 6 and 7 | Bachelor’s or Master’s Degree |
All apprenticeships will include elements of on the job and off the job training leading to industry recognised standards or qualifications. Some apprenticeships will require an assessment at the end of the programme to assess the apprentice’s ability and competence in their job role.
Apprentice Wage
The minimum wage for apprentices is £3.30 per hour, but many employers pay more than this. This is dependent on the sector, region and apprenticeship level e.g. some higher apprenticeships can pay as much as £300 – £500 per week.