Essential Guide to Apprenticeships 2023

Classroom Level 3 Technical Extended Diploma in Mechanical Engineering Career Mechanical Engineering Apprentice at Cheshire Seals and Components Joined us from Cowley International College “I have always loved discovering how things work and prefer to learn in a practical way, so when I had the opportunity to complete an engineering apprenticeship at Cheshire Seals and Components, I jumped at the chance. After completing my apprenticeship, I hope to progress on to a HNC to continue developing my skills.” Read her full story at www.sthelens.ac.uk/rebecca REBECCA INSPIRING MECHANICAL ENGINEER PARENT FAQ’ s What is off-the-job-training? It is a statutory requirement for an apprentice to spend aminimumof 6 hours per week of their paidworking hours ‘off-the-job’. This timewill be spent receiving training to gain the skills needed to complete their apprenticeship. The 6 hours training can be delivered flexibly, by either the College or employer, as part of each day or one day per week and can either be remote learning or allocated time in theworkplace. The employer andCollegewill decide on the best model. 14 Name Level Equivalent Educational Level Intermediate Apprenticeship 2 5 GCSEs (grades 9-4) Advanced Apprenticeship 3 2 A levels, 4 AS Levels, Level 3 Diploma/Certificate Higher Apprenticeship 4, 5, 6 and 7 Foundation, Bachelor’s or Master’s Degree Degree Apprenticeship 6 and 7 Bachelor’s or Master’s Degree What apprenticeship levels are there? There are various levels of apprenticeships dependant on current skills and qualifications. Apprenticeship qualifications are just as substantial as alternative study routes and can still lead to university, upon completion of a level 3 apprenticeship. See the table below for an explanation of apprenticeship equivalent levels: How can I tell if it is a good apprenticeship? Ahighwagedoesn’t alwaysmean that an apprenticeship is good. Look out for a role that is varied, has staff benefits, extra trainingopportunities aswell as progression opportunities. All of the above shows the employer is looking to invest in the apprentice todevelop thempersonally andprofessionally. Financial support for apprentices? Apprentices can benefit fromvariousmoney saving schemes including: • An NUSApprentice Extra Card - the card costs £11 per year to set up but provides apprentices withmassive discounts on high street and online retailers. • A variety of travel discounts - apprentices aged 16-25 can apply for a railcard saving up to a third on train fares. • A £1,000 bursary is available for care leavers aged 16-24, to help the transition into theworkplace. How much do apprentices get paid? The current national minimumwage for an apprentice is £5.28 (as of April 2023) but this can vary depending on age and length of time on the programme. Any apprentices aged 19+, must be paid at least the National MinimumWage rate for their age, after their first 12months in their apprenticeship.