Here at Parenta we’re always writing about key elements of apprenticeships: how your career will benefit, how to apply for one and how to progress after one. However, you may also be wondering what an apprenticeship actually is. So, to help you understand, here are a few common questions we get asked about them and their answers!
What are the different levels of apprenticeships?
Apprenticeships are just like any other qualification (you even get a certificate at the end) with the added bonus that you’re actually learning on the job! Apprenticeships are broken down into three levels. You can complete 1, 2 or all levels of an apprenticeship; your experience and qualifications will determine which level you go in at and then you can progress up.
- Foundation apprenticeship (level 2)
- Advanced apprenticeship (level 3)
- Higher apprenticeship (level 4+)
What will be expected of me?
You’ll need to be working more than 30 hours a week (this can vary depending on the sector you choose to work in) and be self-motivated as you’ll need to be able to balance your work and assignments. Your apprenticeship itself will involve a mixture of observations and written work for each module. Depending on your GCSE results, you might also be required to sit some functional skills tests too.
How much will I earn as an apprentice?
The current minimum wage is £3.50 per hour (this changes yearly so be sure to check the current employment rates here). If you’re 19 and under and in your first year of your apprenticeship, after this point employers will need to pay you the national minimum wage for your age category. However, some companies will pay you more than this or offer benefits such as travel, training or lunch expenses.
Am I entitled to holiday and how long do apprenticeships last?
Yes. All apprentices are entitled to at least 20 days of paid holiday a year, plus bank holidays, although in some places this might be more or less, depending on the hours worked. Apprenticeships normally last between 1 to 2 years but can be less or more depending on the circumstance/type of course. You will need to complete your apprenticeship in order to gain the qualification and leaving early means sacrificing this.
Where will my apprenticeship take place?
Your apprenticeship will take place in a relevant working environment. For example if you’re doing a childcare course, you’ll be working in a nursery whilst if you’re doing a business admin apprenticeship, you’ll be working in an office. Some apprenticeships require you to attend college or training workshop once a week, whilst others (like Parenta) send an assessor visit you in your place of work and conduct all learning sessions there.
How much support will I receive?
Your manager will always be on hand to answer questions and guide you during your apprenticeship. It’s natural that you might have some questions when completing your assignments, so always be sure to ask them for their advice! At Parenta, your assessor will visit you every 6-8 weeks to check on your progress and conduct observations or give feedback on assignments. However, they are always available for you to contact via email or phone during the entirety of your course.
How will I know if I’m eligible for funding?
To be eligible for funding for a level 2 or 3 business admin or childcare course you’ll need to be over the age of 16 and:
- Have been living in the EU for the last 3 years (at least)
- Not be enrolled in any other government funded course
- Not be educated to level 4/degree level or above
- Be able to work for the national minimum apprenticeship wage
- Be contracted to work at least 30 hours a week (in some circumstances where a business cannot accommodate this, it’s a minimum of 16 hours)
If you’re looking to do a level 3 management or team leading course you’ll need all of the above, plus you’ll need to be supervising 2 members of staff.
How to apply for an apprenticeship today
If you’re interested in one of our apprenticeships or courses, then you can register your interest by completing our training form and a member of our recruitment team will be in contact with you.
