Intermediate Apprenticeships What you need to know

Intermediate Apprenticeships What you need to know by Michael Cheary There’s more than one way to join an apprenticeship…  No matter what stage of your career you’re in, apprenticeships are an excellent way to build up your experience levels and break into a new field. But with many different types of apprenticeship available, knowing which one is right for you is vital for anyone looking to get started.To help point you in the right direction, here’s everything you need to know about Intermediate Apprenticeships:What are Intermediate Apprenticeships?Intermediate Apprenticeships are the first level of apprenticeships.They combine on-the-job training with classroom study, which will help to provide all the skills and training you need to get started in a new industry.Intermediate Apprentices work towards work-based learning qualifications, such as an NVQ Level 2, which is mixed with Key Skills in English, Maths and ICT. Most will then progress to a relevant knowledge-based qualification such as a BTEC.How long do they last?Intermediate Apprenticeships last for around 12 months.However, there is no set time limit to complete training, and some employers may offer extra time to get qualified as part of their own apprenticeship schemes.What can I study?Apprenticeships are available in more than 170 industries across the UK.In other words, no matter what role you’re looking to move into in your career, there will be an available opportunity out there for you.Some of the most popular Intermediate Apprenticeships include Accounting, IT, Fashion Textiles, Hair Beauty, Plumbing Electrics, Carpentry and Digital Marketing.However, there are a number of other opportunities outside of the more traditional routes, and more and more employers are offering apprenticeships as a way to upskill their workforce.Five apprenticeships you may not have consideredHow old do I have to be for Intermediate Apprenticeship?You must be at least 16 years old in order to start an apprenticeship.However, there’s no maxim um age limit, so it’s never too late to start learning. All you need to do is find the right opportunity for you.Apprenticeships for school leavers  Can I continue my education while I’m doing an apprenticeship?Yes.Your Intermediate Apprenticeship won’t just help to build up your experience in the workplace.They also provide you with a real, recognised qualification in your chosen career. Most commonly these are earned in a classroom setting, with your employer giving you dedicated time every week to complete your studies â€" whether it’s one or two days a week, or a few weeks at a time.What are the entry requirements for an Intermediate Apprenticeship?Some employers may ask for two or more GCSE passes (grade A*-C). Ideally, these would be in Maths and English.However, they’re not necessarily a prerequisite, and many companies will provide a basic numeracy and literacy test during the application process.There’s also an Access to Apprenticeship scheme, if you feel like y our current credentials fall short.Applying for apprenticeshipsApprenticeships: How to get startedHow much do apprentices earn? Apprentices aged between 16 and 18 are eligible for the National Minimum Wage for apprentices, which is currently £3.70 per hour.This amount will also apply to apprentices over the age of 19, who are still in their first year of studying.What is the equivalent of an Intermediate Apprenticeship?An Intermediate Apprenticeship is equivalent to five GCSEs (grades A*-C).They can also be used as an entry qualification for an Advanced Apprenticeship, which is the next level of apprenticeship.What are the advantages of an Intermediate Apprenticeship?Starting an apprenticeship isn’t just a great way to build your skills and experience levels â€" it’s also a really practical way to gain a new qualification.And because you’ll have the opportunity to earn while you learn, you won’t be saddled with debts or any expensive enrolment fees in order to get certified .Other key benefits of apprenticeships include getting your foot in the door with a well-respected company, boosting your career prospects with industry-recognised training, and the ability to test your skills in the short-term â€" meaning you won’t have to pay any money if you realise the role isn’t really right for you.You’ll also get to play to your strengths. So whether you’re looking for a hands-on role that doesn’t really require uni, or you want to learn coding on-the-job and start building your career right away, an apprenticeship is the perfect place to get started.Why choose an apprenticeship?What next?After completing an Intermediate Apprenticeship, you can move onto an Advanced Apprenticeship (commonly with the same employer), or move into a fully-paid full-time position in your chosen position.Once an Advanced Apprenticeship has been completed, you may also move onto a Higher Apprenticeship â€" the highest level available.Advanced Apprenticeships: What you nee d to knowHigher Apprenticeships: What you need to know  Ready to get started?  View all available apprenticeships now.