Apprenticeships How to get started

Apprenticeships How to get started by Michael Cheary What is an apprenticeship?An apprenticeship is a work-based training programme, which allows participants to earn a recognised qualification whilst gaining practical experience.Although each apprenticeship is different, they usually provide a combination of on-the-job training and off-the-job training, which may mean day release (to attend college), distance learning or independent study.The length of each apprenticeship will vary greatly depending on the industry and employer, but will usually take between one and four years to complete.Who can apply for an apprenticeship?Anyone over 16 in the UK not currently in full time education, who may want to learn a new skill or trade.Although some apprenticeships are targeted solely at candidates between the ages of 16 and 18, there are no age limits to start an apprenticeship, with many large companies allowing applicants of all ages to apply.Do apprentices get paid?Yes. Apprenticeships are paid positions, allowin g you to earn as you learn.The National Minimum Wage for apprentices is currently £3.70 per hour. This applies to apprentices aged between 16 and 18, and those aged 19 or over during their first year.Those aged over 19 who have completed a full year of an apprenticeship are then entitled to be paid at least the minimum wage rate (according to their age).What kinds of apprenticeships are available?There is a common misconception that apprenticeships are only available for skilled labour positions when in fact, they are available to some degree in every sector or industry.There are hundreds of different types, covering literally thousands of different roles. Apprenticeships can be taken in everything from Health and Beauty to Construction and Property, Plumbing to Graphic Design, and everything in between.View all apprenticeships nowWhat are the benefits of an apprenticeship?The main advantage of an apprenticeship is that you can earn a salary whilst gaining industry specific qualifi cations. Also, they allow you to build the foundations for a career, whilst providing more practical training, making them a perfect way to gain experience in your chosen industry.Other key benefits include:One-to-one training with a reputable employerNo student loans or debtsOpportunity to build your professional networkLearn industry specific skills in a practical settingResult in a professional qualificationHow to get startedResearchThe first thing to do is decide what industry you want to work in. Try and weigh up your interests, and work out what your main strengths are. What kind of skills do you want to learn? What career prospects are there within this industry?Do some research into what’s available to you, what apprenticeship schemes are currently present within your area, what qualifications you’d like to achieve, and where you want to go in your career, before moving forward.  Tailor your CVMost apprenticeships are entry-level positions. Therefore, the majority of emp loyers won’t expect you to have an extensive employment history. However, rather than being tempted to try and compensate for this with white-lies and hyperbole, always play to your strengths.Valuable attributes for prospective apprentices include the followingpractical problem solvingbeing able to work independently and as part of a teamreliabilitygood listening skillsattention to detaila willingness to learnAs a result, some of these should be clearly demonstrated (using examples, wherever possible) within your CV. So whether it’s your good grades in Maths (problem solving), or being able to take orders quickly and efficiently when working part-time in a restaurant (listening skills/willingness to learn), these should always be kept in mind when writing your CV.From a formatting point of view, your CV should always be clear, concise and well presented. To find out more, follow our advice on how to write a CV  or download  our free CV template.  Craft your cover letterAs with y our CV, you should always use your cover letter to play to your strengths. To maximise its effectiveness, your cover letter should always be crafted for each individual application. Although time consuming, making it more personal to the position will always pay dividends in the long run.Use your cover letter to explain why you think you’d be suitable for an apprenticeship, why you want to work within that industry/for that company, and where you want to go in your career.To find out how to structure yours, try our free cover letter template.How to write a cover letterPractice your interview techniqueAs with any position, ensuring proper preparation for the interview stage is essential. However, whilst most job vacancies will be competitive, this is especially apparent when it comes to apprenticeships. With the possibility of competing against a number of other candidates, always be conscious of how to stand out from the crowd.Practicing common interview questions, knowing what qu estions you want to ask and being able to demonstrate your passion for the apprenticeship and industry in question are vital.To learn more, here’s our guide about how to prepare for an interview.Don’t give upFinally, resilience is the key attribute to adopt when starting to look into apprenticeships. They can be highly competitive and difficult to get into and, even when successful, may necessitate a lifestyle change when you start.However, never lose sight of why you’re doing it. Apprenticeships are not only a great way to learn a trade in a hands on environment, they’re also a terrific way to get your foot in the door of an employer in your chosen industry.Even if after your apprenticeship it’s not possible for you to be retained by your company, you’ll emerge with a professional qualification, as well as the vital experience sought by many top recruiters.Feel like an apprenticeship is the right option for you? View our available apprenticeships nowFind a job What Wh ere Search JobsSign up for more Career AdviceSign up for moreCareer Advice Please enter a valid email addressmessage hereBy clicking Submit you agree to the