Becoming an Apprentice
8 February 2022
From finding the right apprenticeship or helping you connect with an employer for you, Leicester College can support you each step of the way.
Apprenticeships are real jobs where you will work towards a qualification, all whilst getting paid and gaining work experience. Choosing an apprenticeship is a great way to start your dream career and learn from industry experts.
We wanted to let you know what it means to be an apprentice and what steps you can follow to start your apprenticeship.
What is an Apprentice?
Apprentices are new or existing staff members who are looking to learn a new skill or upskill. Apprentices will complete tasks relevant to the industry they work in whilst also spending time shadowing experienced staff members. You will also attend college sessions to learn skills off the job which you can then put into practice in the workplace.
What do I need to do to secure an Apprenticeship?
An employer will be the connection between you as an apprentice and the college, so you will need to be employed. You can either approach companies yourself or the college can help you find an employer.
You can discover employers who are currently recruiting for apprentices through the government website.
Once you have secured an employer, you will need to contact the college's apprenticeship team so we can check that the employer understands how they will need to support you.
Each apprenticeship will have its own entry requirements. Most apprenticeships will require you to have your English and maths GCSE grade 3 or 4 (or functional skills level 2). If you do not have these, you can still apply as you will have the opportunity to complete functional skills alongside your apprenticeship.
You must also be:
16 or over
Live in the UK
Have the right to work in the UK
Not already be in full-time education
What types of apprenticeships are there?
Intermediate level 2 apprenticeship – equal to five GCSEs at grade 4/C
Advanced level 3 apprenticeship – equal to A-levels
Higher level 4/5 apprenticeship – equal to an undergraduate level qualification
Degree level 6/7 apprenticeship – Equal to a bachelors or master’s degree
You can have a look at the apprenticeships Leicester College offers here.
If you're interested in pursuing an apprenticeship please contact the team by email or call us on 0116 224 2240