FAQs

If you have decided that an Apprenticeship is the right route for you, here is what happens next:

• You need to apply online
• You will be invited for an initial interview with one of our Apprenticeship Team to discuss the apprenticeship in more detail and get advice and guidance
• You will need to update or create your CV with our help and get interview preparation tips
• Your CV will be sent out to potential employers and if you are shortlisted, you will be expected to attend an interview and in some cases possibly be offered a work trial
• Once you have secured an offer of employment we can come and sign you up and get you started

Since the introduction of the new Apprenticeship Standards in 2017, Apprenticeships are now graded through End Point Assessment (EPA) by an external, accredited End Point Assessment Organisation such as City & Guilds or AAT.

Each Apprenticeship has a different EPA process which will be discussed with you at interview but this can involve a combination of Synoptic Test, Work-Based Project, Observation, Professional Discussion, Presentation etc. to demonstrate you have the required level of Knowledge, Skills and Behaviours set out in the Apprenticeship Standard.

You will be guaranteed at least the National Minimum Apprenticeship Wage

Many employers pay more or may decide to increase the rate of pay throughout the Apprenticeship based on performance and progression.

If, after 12 months of being on an Apprenticeship, you are over 19 years old, your rate of pay will increase to at least the minimum rate for your age.

Anyone over 16 can apply but offers are subject to being eligible for funding. You must be employed within the same industry as your chosen Apprenticeship and be working at least 30 hours per week (this can include time spent in training). You must have been an EU citizen/resident in the UK for at least three years.

Apprenticeship funding is also subject to previous qualifications and experience. Our Apprenticeship Co-ordinators will be able to advise candidates about their eligibility for funding on application.

Just like other qualifications, there are different levels of Apprenticeships.

• Intermediate Apprenticeships – Level 2
• Advanced Apprenticeship – Level 3
• Higher/Degree Level Apprenticeships – Level 4 and above

Depending on the job role, your age and your previous experience/qualifications, we will advise the right level for you. Entry levels for different industries/job roles do vary.

You can progress through the levels of Apprenticeships so it’s worth finding out what you can do next when you are reaching the end of your current Apprenticeship. Some Apprenticeships can take you right through to Master’s Degree level.

If you already have an offer of employment but just need a training provider to deliver the qualification, that’s great! Just let us know where you are going to be working and we will do the rest!

If you are an existing employee within a business and would like to access an Apprenticeship to help you get qualified or progress in your role, then contact us for more information. There is no upper age limit for Apprenticeships and we have some great programmes that could help you progress or change career.

If you are looking for an Apprenticeship, we can help you to find suitable employment. We are always helping local employers to recruit apprentices and will possibly have vacancies available that you can apply for. If not, we will help you search for and approach employers to seek out opportunities.

Take a look at our current Apprenticeship vacancies

To study an Apprenticeship at Craven College you will ideally have achieved at least 3 GCSEs 9 – 3 (A*-D).

As well as these general entry requirements, each Apprenticeship may have its own specific conditions which are highlighted in the course information. All Apprenticeships require an interview and any experience you have will be taken into consideration.

All apprenticeships include Maths & English. If you have not already achieved A*-C or 9 – 4 grade in these subjects, you will be required to work towards or complete Level 2 Functional skills before you can be entered for End Point Assessment.

The offer of an Apprenticeship is subject to securing a position with a suitable employer. You cannot start an Apprenticeship until you have secured a job offer.

Businesses need employees who can combine industry knowledge with practical skills. Apprenticeships can help you to begin a career in a chosen industry, learn practical skills and achieve nationally recognised qualifications whilst earning money. As an Apprentice, you will be employed in your chosen industry and receive relevant, high-quality training, mentoring and support from both Craven College and your employer.