What is an Apprenticeship

What is an Apprenticeship
 
‘An apprenticeship is where you will be in employment from day one, earning a wage and also attending a college or local training provider usually one or two days per week in order to obtain a recognised qualification. Apprenticeships take between two and four years to complete and are available in a variety of roles. They are available from Level 2 to Level 7 (Postgraduate Degree level) for construction.
 
Who are apprenticeships for?
 
To take part in an Apprenticeship programme you will need to:
 
• have reached the minimum school leaving age in Northern Ireland (16 years)
• be employed or be about to take up paid employment in Northern Ireland
• be working a minimum of 21 hours per week on a permanent contract
• meet all the entry requirements of the chosen apprenticeship (for example some apprenticeships will require GCSE’s)
• meet a number of eligibility considerations, for example if you are a non-EU national or a public sector employee, or if you have previously achieved a recognised vocational qualification
 
What qualifications do I need to become an apprentice?
 
For some apprenticeships there are minimum entry requirements, such as GCSEs. The training supplier you choose can advise on these.
 
What are the benefits?
 
• Earning a salary and having paid holidays
• Gaining a recognised qualification
• Working alongside experienced staff
• Excellent career progression
• Opportunity to become self employed
• Increased future earning potential
• No Student Loan Debt
 
Types of Apprenticeships
 
There are various levels of apprenticeship to apply for depending on your current skills and qualifications. Apprenticeships have equivalent educational levels:

 

All apprenticeships include elements of “on” and “off” the job training leading to industry recognised standards or qualifications.
 
Further information can be found on the NIDirect website on the following link:
https://www.nidirect.gov.uk/campaigns/apprenticeships