Earn While you Learn with Apprenticeships

Being paid while you learn might sound too good to be true — but as an apprentice you really do get the best of both worlds. And while you’re studying for your qualifications, you’ll be able to get hands-on work experience.

If you have the dedication to succeed in the world of work, and you’re not afraid to commit yourself to one, two or even five years of training and study, then an Apprenticeship could be for you.

Apprenticeships are suited to people who are focused and know the career they want. Many Apprenticeships are sought after, so demand for places is high. But if you have the determination and drive to succeed, then you may end up as one of the 250,000 people currently doing an Apprenticeship.

If you’re still considering options other than an Apprenticeship or aren’t sure about the right career for you, why not talk through your options with a Connexions Direct Adviser? You can get in touch with them by calling on 080 800 13219 or chat with an Adviser online through their website www.connexions-direct.com

What can I learn?

There are Apprenticeships in many different occupations. Which Apprenticeship is right for you will depend on your interests, your experience and the opportunities in your area.

About Apprenticeships

Apprentices learn on the job, building up knowledge and skills, gaining qualifications and earning money all at the same time. There are different levels of Apprenticeship available, but they all lead to National Vocational Qualifications (NVQs), Key Skills qualifications and, in most cases, a technical certificate such as a BTEC or City & Guilds.

By applying to do an Apprenticeship, you’re agreeing to work well and study hard. The success of any Apprenticeship is dependent on the hard work and dedication of all those taking part. Apprenticeships are increasingly popular and are a fantastic way to further your career plans, but they’re not for everyone. If you’re not keen on the idea of further study or not sure you could commit for up to five years (in some cases), then an Apprenticeship may not be for you.

As an apprentice, you’ll be given the very best training for a formal qualification by both learning providers and employers. In return, you’ll be expected to use your training and studies to do the best job possible. Talk to your career teachers to help you decide if work-based training may be the best option for you after Year 11.

There is a useful guide for Year 10 and 11 students to help plan your next steps after Year 11.  Visit www.connexions-direct.com/itsyourchoice

Other Useful Web Addresses:

www.realworkrealpay.info/apprenticeship
www.dfes.gov.uk/tfst
www.apprenticeships.org.uk

Jobs 4U is the Connexions occupational database and will help you find out different entry levels for jobs and see if you can do work-based training. Visit www.connexions-direct.com/jobs4u

Based outside England?

N. Ireland: 0800 100 900
Scotland: 0845 8502 502
Wales: 029 2090 6801