All you need to know about Apprenticeships
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Frequently asked questions & answers for individuals:
What is an apprenticeship?
An apprenticeship is made up of 4 components:
• A technical certificate which provides the underpinning theory and knowledge
• NVQ which provides the work related experience, knowledge, skills & competences
• Key skills which relates to levels of communication, literacy, numeracy and IT skills.
• Employment rights and responsibilities
How do I get onto an apprenticeship?
Ideally you’d want to be in full time employment and then find a training provider who offers the apprenticeship programme.
If you are unable to find employment and have approached all the local businesses, contact your local training provider who will be able to provide you with a programme led apprenticeship, whilst seeking out work placement for you It is also worth contacting connexions (under 19 years) to see if they have any links with the industry. For a list of Manufacturer and Independent Apprenticeships download the 2008 Directory of Automotive Apprenticeship Centres here ...
Who is eligible for an apprenticeship?
In England apprenticeships are available to those aged 16-24 years, but places are limited if you are 19 or over.
What can I expect to be paid?
For those under 19 years there are no legal requirements to pay the minimum wage through we recommend a wage of approximately £80 per week.
If you are 19 years when embarking onto the apprenticeship or you turn 19 within the first year of the apprenticeship then you are legally entitled to the minimum wage for that age group.
What apprenticeships are available?
Apprenticeships are available in the following sub sectors:
Vehicle Fitting
Body & Paint
Vehicle Parts
Vehicle Sales
Roadside Assistance and Recovery
Service & Maintenance – Heavy Vehicle
Light Vehicle
Motorcycle
Auto electrical
Mobile electronic security
What funding is available in England for apprenticeships and where does it come from?
Full funding is available to those aged 16-18 years. For those aged 19yrs + there is some funding available. You will need to contact the local learning and skills council to find out more http://www.lsc.gov.uk/ or 0870 900 6800
What grades do I need for an apprenticeship?
It may vary from each employer and programme. Generally speaking you will need a minimum of 3 GCSEs including English and maths A-C grades. Some places may ask for 5 GCSEs and they will vary in requirements of subjects.
Frequently asked questions & answers for employers:
Do I need extra insurance to take on an Apprentice?
No - you will be covered by the your business liability insurances.
Where do I go to get an Apprentice?
The best starting point is to contact your local colleges, training providers and connexions.
How do I know which is the best training provider to go to?
If you are concerned about the quality and reputation of the training provider then they should look at the OfSTED reports as every provider will take part in this process.
What awarding bodies provide apprenticeship programmes?
IMI Awards, City & Guilds & Edexcel (Edexcel offer the technical certificate and Key Skills not the NVQ)
How do I set up my own apprenticeship programme?
There are a few steps to get you started on, contact your local LSC to discuss funding and other requirements of setting up your own Apprenticeship programme.
What are the benefits of taking an apprentice on?
Taking on an apprentice can provide your business plus the industry with great benefits:
• It gives young people the skills and knowledge to be able to do a better job
• This motivates young people and so they work hard and want to learn
• A company that invests in their staff will find it easier to recruit and retain employees
• The training is relevant to the businesses needs, thus making it a good investment
• It gives the employer an opportunity to invest in the future of the business allowing for specialised skills to be developed that allow you to keep up with the speed of ever advancing technologies.
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