About apprenticeships

An apprenticeship gives you hands-on experience, a salary and the opportunity to train while you work.

An apprenticeship is a real job. It's a way to:

• Earn a wage and learn at the same time, with at least 20% of your time set aside for learning - normally at a college, university or another training provider
• Gain official certification of your skills, equivalent to a qualification ranging from Level 2 (GCSE equivalent) up to degree level
• Start a long-term career path with the possibility of higher earnings.

By successfully completing your apprenticeship, you'll have gained the confidence and skills needed to progress in your chosen career. Apprenticeships are available across a wide range of industries and organisations, from local businesses to large national brands.

• Current apprenticeship vacancies
• Apprenticeship training programmes available through Adult Learning services

How much can you earn?

All apprenticeships help forge a long term career path and the possibility for higher earnings. Pay is dependent on the industry, location and type of apprenticeship - for example, some higher apprenticeships can pay as much as £500 per week.

Many employers choose to pay substantially more than the apprenticeship minimum wage.

Remember, if you complete a higher or degree apprenticeship, you'll have no university debts. You will have been earning for the length of your apprenticeship with no tuition fees.

Who are apprenticeships for?

Many apprentices are school leavers and young people, but there is no upper age limit.

If you're over 16, living in England and not in full time education then an apprenticeship could be perfect for you.

Apprenticeships are available across a huge range of industries, whether it's law, engineering, nursing or design.

The levels of apprenticeship on offer range from Level 2 (equivalent to GCSE) right up to higher and degree apprenticeships - there's bound to be one that's right for you.

Contact us for advice

If you want to know more about becoming an apprentice or if you're thinking about employing apprentices or providing traineeships, email al.apprenticeships@norfolk.gov.uk and one of our advisors will get in touch with you.

This page contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0