Future Steps - Into Apprenticeships

If you have finished your A Levels you might be considering an apprenticeship. An apprenticeship can be a good route if you want to get training for a specific job sector and be earning at the same time. There are all sorts of opportunities for fantastic apprenticeships developing all the time.

However, there are a few things you need to consider:

• An Advanced Apprenticeship is a Level 3 qualification, the same level as A Levels. If you do not have the relevant job specific experience you might have to complete an Advanced Apprenticeship, even if you have A Levels – although you might be able to complete it quicker than a 16 year old.
• There are 40+ different job areas now offering Higher Apprenticeships, which are higher education level qualifications (Level 4+). Employers are asking for A Levels and other Level 3 qualifications as entry requirements. Search for vacancies online and by looking at companies’ websites or making speculative applications. You can also search for an Apprenticeship on the gov.uk website.
• Not all sectors offer Higher Apprenticeships qualifications so make sure you check if they are available in your chosen sector.
• Higher Apprenticeship opportunities are likely to be highly competitive!

There are also now Degree Apprenticeships. These have been designed by employers and universities and apprentices will split their time between university study and the workplace and will be employed throughout – gaining a full bachelors or masters degree from a top university while earning a wage and getting real on-the-job experience in their chosen profession.

Higher Apprentices are already able to study to degree level as part of their apprenticeship but Degree Apprenticeships will go further. They will involve a degree as an integral part of the Apprenticeship, co-designed by employers to make sure it is relevant for the skills that industry is looking for.

For more information about Higher Apprenticeships and Degree Apprenticeships:

Finding a Higher Apprenticeship

Government website to find a higher apprenticeship

General information about apprenticeships:

Find an Apprenticeship

Government site providing information and advice

The Apprenticeship Guide

Guide to apprenticeships, including higher apprenticeships

UCAS Alternatives to Higher Education

Information about alternatives to higher education from UCAS

All About School Leavers

Information, CV and cover letter tips in applying for apprenticeships