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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Below are some of the most commonly asked questions about Apprenticeships, but if you still have any questions, you can get in touch using the details below.

To find out more about Apprenticeships:

The minimum wage an apprentice can be paid is £4.15 an hour. This rate applies if the apprentice is under 19, or in their first year of an Apprenticeship. If the apprentice is 19 or older and has completed their first year, they’ll be paid the national minimum wage for their age. Note that many organisations choose to pay their apprentices more than the minimum rate. Apprentices are paid for both their time at work, and their time at the College. They also get 20 days’ paid holiday per year, plus bank holidays.

The College fees are covered through a combination of Government funding and the employer.

As an apprentice, you will not have to pay any fees.

Apprenticeships are full-time positions (between 30 and 40 hours per week) that see you spend 80% of your time at work and 20% of your time engaged with off-the-job training.

Off-the-job training could involve attending College one day a week, but off-the-job training expectations will vary depending on your Apprenticeship.

Apprenticeships are based on standards that have been designed by employers to focus on the skills that businesses need. There are several levels of Apprenticeships.

Intermediate Apprenticeship:

  • Level 2 (equivalent to five GCSEs at grades 9-4)

Advanced Apprenticeship:

  • Level 3 (equivalent to two A Levels at grades A to E)

Higher Apprenticeship:

  • Level 4 (equivalent to a Higher National Certificate)
  • Level 5 (equivalent to a Foundation Degree)
  • Level 6 (equivalent to a Bachelor’s Degree)
  • Level 7 (equivalent to a Master’s Degree)

It really depends on the level and or standard. All Apprenticeships have a minimum duration of 12 months and one week but some are up to four years depending on the vocational area and level.

Of course! Apprenticeships are not just for people who are starting work for the first time; they can also help adults with development throughout their whole career.

Contact our Business Engagement team on 01752 305026 or e-mail employers@cityplym.ac.uk to find out more.

Definitely. More and more adults are using Apprenticeships to change career or upskill in their current line of work. And you can now do Apprenticeships in most subject areas.