Starting an apprenticeship can be a transformative journey, merging practical experience with structured learning. For many, the question is not just about understanding what an apprenticeship entails but also about figuring out how to get started. This comprehensive guide aims to demystify apprenticeships and provide a clear path for those ready to begin their journey.
Table of Contents:
The Structure of an Apprenticeship
Step-by-step guide to starting your apprenticeship journey
- Create a plan and identify your skills gaps
- Complete onboarding documents and agree on a start date
- Training and Development
- Assessment Time
What is an apprenticeship?
Simply put, an apprenticeship is a job with training and education. It allows individuals to earn while they learn, gaining essential skills and professional qualifications specific to their chosen field.
Typically, apprentices spend a minimum of six hours a week completing off-the-job training, which could include workshops, completing assignments or online learning This combination of work and study helps develop both the practical skills and theoretical knowledge required to excel in their careers.
The Structure of an Apprenticeship
Apprenticeships are designed to offer a balance between work responsibilities and educational development. They come in various forms and levels, catering to different industries and career stages:
| Apprenticeship | Equivalent Education Level |
| Intermediate Apprenticeship | GCSE (Level 2) |
| Advanced Apprenticeship | A-Level / BTEC (Level 3) |
| Higher Apprenticeship | Foundation Degree (Level 4) |
| Degree Apprenticeship | Bachelor’s – Master’s Degree (Level 5-7) |
Starting Your Apprenticeship Journey
The first step in your apprenticeship journey involves some planning. Identifying any skills gaps is crucial. This self-assessment helps in choosing the right apprenticeship that aligns with your career goals and interests. Create a detailed plan outlining your objectives and the steps you need to take to achieve them.
1. Create a plan and identify your skills gaps 🔎
A plan will give you a head start, whether it’s a professional development plan for yourself, someone in your team or a strategic development plan for your organisation.
✨ Top Tip: When choosing a training provider, read their Ofsted report and Google reviews, ask what professional qualifications are included and their delivery method.
Check out Whyy? Change’s Ofsted report to hear why we’re a ‘GOOD’ Training Provider.
Choosing The Best Apprenticeship Training Provider
With numerous training providers and courses available, selecting the right apprenticeship can seem daunting. To make an informed decision, consider the following:
- Evaluating Training Providers: Look into the reputation and reviews of potential training providers. Read their Ofsted reports, which assess their quality and effectiveness.
- Understanding Professional Qualifications: Ensure that the apprenticeship includes relevant professional qualifications that are recognised and valued in your industry.
- Delivery Methods: Assess how the training will be delivered—whether it’s online, in-person, or a mix of both—and how it fits with your learning style and schedule.
Discover the difference between accredited and non-accredited professional qualifications in this handy guide.
2. Complete onboarding documents and agree on a start date 📅
Once you’ve chosen your training provider and apprenticeship, the next step is to complete the all-important onboarding documents. These documents are crucial for officially registering you as an apprentice. Alongside this, agreeing on a start date is essential. This date marks the beginning of your apprenticeship and should be selected carefully to ensure you are fully prepared and ready to commit.
✨ Top Tip: Choosing the right course, at the right time for the right person is key to having a successful apprenticeship journey. ‘Don’t rush it wrong.’
3. Training and Development ⚙️
Starting your apprenticeship involves registering with course-specific professional bodies, which ensures you receive recognised and respected qualifications. Regular training sessions will be part of your schedule, designed to develop your knowledge, skills, and behaviours during your apprenticeship. These sessions are often a mix of practical and theoretical learning, bespoke to your training needs.
Choosing a reputable training provider can come with added benefits. Accredited study centres often offer perks such as free memberships to professional bodies. These memberships provide additional resources, networking opportunities, and support throughout your apprenticeship.
✨ Value-added extras when you choose Whyy? Change:
As an accredited/approved study centre with The Chartered Institute of Marketing, Chartered Institute of Personnel Development, Chartered Management Institute and The Chartered Quality Institute, apprentices receive a free 12-month student membership with some of the world’s leading educational bodies.
4. Assessment time 📝
The culmination of your apprenticeship journey is the End Point Assessment (EPA). This assessment evaluates your occupational competence and ensures you have acquired the necessary skills and knowledge. Preparing for the EPA involves completing assignments and training modules. Support from your training provider and employer can be invaluable during this period, helping you navigate the final steps of your apprenticeship.
✨ 𝗧𝗼𝗽 𝗧𝗶𝗽: Apprentices will need additional time and support with their assessments when preparing for EPA. Giving them the support they need will set them up for success.
Apprenticeship Funding
Funding and financial support are important considerations when starting an apprenticeship. Government funding, grants, and employer contributions can help cover the costs associated with your training. Understanding these financial aspects ensures you are well-prepared and can focus on your learning and development.
Apprenticeship FAQ’s
What is an Apprenticeship?
An apprenticeship is a job that combines practical work with structured training and education. It allows individuals to earn while they learn, gaining essential skills and qualifications.
How is the End Point Assessment conducted?
The End Point Assessment (EPA) evaluates an apprentice’s occupational competence through assignments, practical tasks, and exams. It ensures that the apprentice has acquired the necessary skills and knowledge.
What are the benefits of completing an apprenticeship?
Completing an apprenticeship offers numerous benefits, including gaining practical experience, earning qualifications, and enhancing career prospects. Apprenticeships also provide a pathway to further education and advanced roles.
Can I change my apprenticeship path?
Yes, it is possible to change your apprenticeship path. If your interests or career goals shift, discuss your options with your training provider and employer to find a suitable alternative.
What apprenticeships do Whyy? Change offer?
Whyy? Change offers engaging accredited face-to-face apprenticeships, starting at Level 3 right through to Level 7 in Leadership, Marketing, Lean & Six Sigma, HR, Learning & Development and Quality HSE. Delivered in small open cohorts, with access to online resources, by highly skilled practitioners who live and breathe their specialist subject areas.
Conclusion
Starting an apprenticeship is a significant step towards building a successful career. By understanding what an apprenticeship entails and following the outlined steps, you can embark on this journey with confidence. Remember, choosing the right training provider, receiving adequate support, and preparing thoroughly for assessments are key components of a successful apprenticeship. Whether you are just beginning or looking to advance your career, apprenticeships offer valuable opportunities for growth and development.
If you’re still unsure where to start, don’t worry, our team will do the leg work, we’ll work with you every step of the way, including reserving funding, supporting your digital apprenticeship account and onboarding your apprentices.
By choosing Whyy? Change as your training partner, you’ll be guaranteed a personal, engaging and responsive apprenticeship experience. Let’s have a chat, fill out the form below to speak to our team of experts.
