Apprenticeships – WORK, LEARN & EARN
What is an apprenticeship?
Apprenticeships allow you to work in a real job environment that provides you with paid practical on the job training whilst also studying, usually for one day a week either in college or a training centre.
Apprenticeships are available to anyone aged 16 or over and are available at intermediate, advanced and higher degree level. An apprenticeship usually lasts between 1 to 5 years and is based on the timeframe for completion of the relevant qualification. A business can get help from the Government to pay for apprenticeship training.
What do apprentices do?
Apprentices work in a business alongside staff and complete real work! This could be any type of job from hairdressing to engineering, working in an office and even joining the British Army. Usually, apprentices will have to select modules as part of their training which complements the business environment within which they work to enable practical experience and application of the same. A proper working environment allows apprentices the opportunity to learn valuable transferable skills such as time management and team work.
Rights of an apprentice
Apprentices have the same rights as other employees. They are entitled to a contract of employment as well as a minimum of 28 days paid leave each year and a minimum rate of pay. They are required to work a minimum of 30 Hours per week and also have part time study in between (sometimes this includes a day release from work)
When can an apprenticeship be terminated?
Apprentices engaged under an apprenticeship agreement can be dismissed in the same way as ordinary employees. However, some apprentices are engaged under a contract of apprenticeship which is usually for a fixed term and an employer may only have a limited rights of dismissal before the end of the fixed term.
Rate of pay
Your wage depends on your employer, however it cannot be below the apprenticeship minimum wage of £3.70 (April 2018 Rate). This rate applies to apprentices under 19 and those aged 19 or over who are in their first year.
Pros and Cons
The advantages of an apprenticeship are:
- Gain real life experience. You will be able to boost your CV and skill set
- Find out your interests .An apprenticeship will give you a feel for a certain type of job and whether it is something you want to pursue and progress long term. It may also open the door to further opportunities within that work environment.
- Earn while you learn without incurring debt
- You’ll get paid holidays
The disadvantages of an apprenticeship are:
- You may get paid less than others. Many apprentices are paid less than their qualified colleagues as the focus is on training and the significant time investment of the business.
- You can’t gain access to certain careers through the apprenticeship route and you may require a under graduate degree for certain careers.
Our latest employment department article on apprenticeships, written by our very own Office Junior and former Apprentice, Anjali Mawi
