Apprenticeship guidance for care leavers

An apprenticeship is a job with training. Apprenticeships are a great way to gain work experience and get paid. You might be surprised by the number of vacancies in different industries.  

Anyone can apply for an apprenticeship when they leave school. As it is a job, you will normally work for a minimum of 30 hours, every week.

It is possible to complete an apprenticeship on a part time basis, but it will take longer. You will need to speak to your training provider and employer if you are interested in this but not all apprenticeships can work this way.

Once you start your apprenticeship you will become an 'employee'. This means you will be entitled to a contract of employment with the same terms and conditions as other staff. Make sure you ask your employer for a copy of this, so you know their expectations of you, and what you can expect of them.

You can expect to train at least 20% of your employed hours. All apprenticeships differ, so it could be:

• One day a week with a training provider
• Block release (a period of study with a training provider)
• Training in the workplace

During your apprenticeship, you'll be assessed to make sure you're achieving the knowledge, skills and behaviours needed for your chosen apprenticeship.

Alongside your apprenticeship you may need to complete Functional Skills or GCSEs in Maths and/or English. This depends on previous GCSE grades and the level of the apprenticeship.

You will need to study and work at the same time and you will be expected to do far more outside of college time.

Your Life Beyond Care Personal Advisor can help you decide if an apprenticeship is right for you.

Find out more about apprenticeships