Understanding apprenticeships

Whether you are thinking about what to do after you leave school or you are already in work at the University and thinking about gaining new skills in your current role or role change, an apprenticeship could be the right path for you. If you are 16 years or older and would like a job that offers training, then an apprenticeship is an opportunity to earn while you learn.

Who can apply?

Anyone living in England*, over-16 and not in full time education & existing staff can apply

How long does an apprenticeship last?

Depending on the skills and levels required, an apprenticeship can last from one to four years

What level of qualifications are included?

You can now start an apprenticeship at flexible entry levels e.g. from GCSE and A Level all the way up to Masters level

What’s in it for me?

Apprenticeships combine practical training in a job with study and cover a wide choice of careers.  They are a great way to apply your learning immediately to your work whilst getting paid. The training can give you the skills you need to start your career, or boost your skills if you are already in work.  You can also use apprenticeships to develop leadership and management expertise.

As an apprentice you’ll:

  • work alongside experienced staff
  • gain job-specific skills
  • earn a wage and get holiday pay
  • get time for study and training related to your role (amounting to approximately one day a week)

*Residency requirements:

  • You must have the right to work in England.
  • You must be either:
    • a citizen of a country within the European Economic Area (EEA) (including other countries determined within the EEA or those with bilateral agreements), or have the right of abode in the UK, and have been ordinarily resident in the EEA (including other countries determined within the EEA or those with bilateral agreements), for at least the previous three years on the first day of learning
    • or a non-EEA citizen with permission from the UK government to live in the UK, (not for educational purposes) and have been ordinarily resident in the UK for at least the previous three years before the start of learning.
    • Apprenticeship funding rules for employers - Annex A: Eligibility criteria (who we fund) - Guidance…

You will be employed by the University and complete a relevant training programme to gain a nationally recognised qualification delivered by an external training provider.

Off-the-Job Learning

Training may take place in the workplace or through day or block release, depending on your type of apprenticeship.  You will be required to complete a percentage of your working hours on ‘off the job’ learning activities.  This may include:

  • personal study time         
  • watching videos                 
  • attending tutorials              
  • completing assignments     
  • involvement in project work     
  • shadowing a peer or mentor 
  • learning support with your coach
  • attending training sessions

Mentoring and peer support

Throughout your apprenticeship, you will be supported by your line manager who will be responsible for helping you organise the work-based training that will allow you to meet the requirements of the apprenticeship role and to complete your portfolio.  We would encourage you to liaise with your line manager to find a mentor, an experienced member of staff who will guide you through the day-to-day training and provide support if you experience any difficulties during your apprenticeship.

You will also join a growing community of apprentices within the University and Colleges and peer to peer support will be available through support groups.