Introduction to Apprenticeships

Getting paid while you learn might sound too good to be true, but as an apprentice you really do get the best of both worlds. Our apprenticeship programmes enable you to learn the skills and gain the knowledge needed for your chosen profession, whilst working and earning a wage at the same time.

On completing your apprenticeship the career prospects are endless. You could use your experience as a stepping stone onto the next level of apprenticeship, progress on to a university level qualification at the College or at a university, or step up to the next level in your employment.

Apprenticeships can take between one and four years to complete depending on the level of the programme and the industry sector.

Apprenticeships are open to all age groups above 16 years-old whether you are just leaving school, have been working for years or are seeking to start a new career. You just need to be living in England and not taking part in full-time education.

There may be different entry requirements depending on the apprenticeship and the industry sector. Competition for places with employers can be fierce. You will need to show that you are committed and aware of your responsibilities to both yourself and the company who would employ you.

Apprenticeships are designed with the help of the employers in the industry, so they offer a structured programme that takes you through the skills you need to do a job. There are targets and checks to make sure that your employer is supporting you and you are making progress.

As employees, apprentices work alongside experienced staff to gain job-specific skills, usually for a minimum of 30 hours per week. Off the job, usually on a day-release basis, apprentices attend Solihull College & University Centre to receive their training.