Apprenticeships combine practical training in a job with study. They can take between 1 and 4 years to complete depending on their level. As an apprentice, you will be working at least 30 hours per week and will receive pay at National Minimum Wage.
You will be studying for a national qualification either in your place of work or classroom-based, this can be for one day a week or perhaps on a block release basis.
Levels of apprenticeship
Apprenticeships have equivalent educational levels.
- Intermediate or Level 2 is the equivalent of 5 GCSE passes at grades 4 to 9 (or A* to C).
- Advanced or Level 3 is equivalent to 2 A-level passes.
- Higher or Levels 4,5,6 and 7 are equivalent to a foundation degree or above.
- Degree or Levels 6 and 7 are equivalent to a bachelor’s or master’s degree.
Who can apply?
You can apply for an apprenticeship while you’re still at school. To start one, you’ll need to be:
- 16 or over
- not in full-time education
- living in England
The key points about apprenticeships
- You will work alongside experienced staff.
- You gain job-specific skills.
- You earn a wage and get holiday pay.
- You study towards a related qualification (usually one day a week).
- Apprenticeships are not the same as going to university.
- Some careers do not have apprenticeship pathways.
Find an apprenticeship
Colleges in Devon offer apprenticeships courses. You can find out more on your local college’s website:
- Bicton College apprenticeships
- Exeter College apprenticeships
- Petroc College apprenticeships
- South Devon College apprenticeships
The GOV.UK website also has a tool to find an apprenticeship.
Visit the Devon County Council apprenticeship scheme webpage to find out more about the apprenticeships that we offer.
More information
A guide for disabled people is available at Disability Rights UK – Into Apprenticeships.