1 www.preston.ac.uk APPRENTICESHIP COURSE GUIDE www.preston.ac.uk
2 At Preston College we take great pride in supporting all of our apprentices to achieve the qualifications, technical skills, knowledge and behaviours that employers are looking for. Whether you are a school leaver, an adult looking to change your career through an apprenticeship, or you are keen to upskill with your current employer, we have an apprenticeship programme for you. It is our mission to make you ready for industry and to thrive in your chosen career. We do this with the collaborative support and mentorship of our partner employers who give our apprentices the absolute best in real work experience and career progression. We offer expert training in a wide range of industries and sectors, and we are committed to ensuring you have the transferable skills that will help you achieve your career aspirations. OUR EXPERIENCE Preston College has a successful track record in providing people with high quality apprenticeships. We have a dedicated employer engagement team working with employers to offer the best apprenticeship opportunities for our learners. We are one of the largest apprenticeship providers in the local area, successfully and proudly training hundreds of apprentices every year across a wide range of industry sectors. Our dedicated sector specialist staff and our industry-standard facilities make Preston College an exciting and enjoyable place to study. OUR EMPLOYER RELATIONS Our ongoing relationships with employers in the region are critical to ensure that our apprenticeship provision is highly relevant, up-to-date and of a high quality. Employers are considered and invited to collaborate and develop the curriculum to ensure that apprentices are learning the skills that employers need for their industry’s future. We work with over a thousand employers across the region, from the self–employed and SMEs to the large corporate and international organisations. OUR APPRENTICESHIP CURRICULUM At Preston College, we pride ourselves on the evolution of our programme and curriculum offer. Through detailed conversations with local employers, external stakeholders, and community leaders, we are able to gain vital industrial insight and technical expertise to inform our curriculum design and to ensure our apprentices are given the relevant technical skills to prepare them for current and future employer needs. EMPLOYABILITY Business owners see apprenticeships as an effective way to grow talent and develop a motivated, skilled and qualified workforce and we continue to see growth in employers working with us to fill their apprenticeship vacancies. Employers value apprenticeships because on top of subject knowledge, apprentices develop aptitude, attitude and behaviours that demonstrate their ability to work effectively in a team and become a valued member of the organisation. These skills are beneficial to job performance, personal and social development and future career success. OUR COLLEGE PROMISE The welfare and safety of our apprentices is our priority at Preston College, and we will ensure that every apprentice has access to a team of specialist staff who will support them through their apprenticeship. In addition to this, we will work with each employer to ensure that they have the relevant and most up-to-date information to enable them to provide a secure and safe environment for their apprentice to work in. We hope that you will consider Preston College as the training provider for your apprenticeship and we look forward to welcoming you to the College. WELCOME TO PRESTON COLLEGE Simon Nixon Principal and Chief Executive
3 AUTOMOTIVE TECHNOLOGIES 8 AAT ACCOUNTANCY 12 BUSINESS AND MANAGEMENT 12 CONSTRUCTION AND THE BUILT ENVIRONMENT 16 DENTAL 20 CONTENTS ENGINEERING 24 HAIR AND BEAUTY 28 PHARMACY 20 PLUMBING, GAS AND ELECTRICAL 19 SCIENCE 32
4 www.preston.ac.uk AUTOMOTIVE TECHNOLOGIES • Autocare Technician L2 • Light Vehicle Service & Maintenance Technician L3 • Heavy Vehicle & Maintenance Technician L3 BUSINESS AND MANAGEMENT • AAT Accounts Assistant L2 • AAT Assistant Accountant L3 • Payroll Administrator L3 • Professional Accounting or Taxation Technician L4 • Business Administrator L3 • Customer Service Practitioner L2 • Customer Service Specialist L3 • HR Support Assistant L3 • Team Leader L3 • Learning and Skills Mentor L4 • Leader in Adult Care L5 • Associate Project Manager L4 • Operations/Departmental Manager L5 CONSTRUCTION AND THE BUILT ENVIRONMENT • Bricklaying L2 • Interior Systems Installer (Plastering and Dry Lining) L2 • Plastering L2 • Wall and Floor Tiling L2 • Painting and Decorating L2 • Highways Maintenance Skilled Operative L2 • Groundworker L2 • Property Maintenance Operative L2 • Wood Manufacturing Operative L2 • Roof Slater and Tiler L2 • Carpentry and Joinery L2 • Advanced Carpentry and Joinery L3 KEY L2 = Level 2 L3 = Level 3 L4 = Level 4 L5 = Level 5 • Construction Site Supervisor L4 • Construction Quality Surveying Technician L4 • Construction Site Engineering Technician L4 • Building Services Engineering Technician L4 • Plumbing & Gas* L3 • Electrical Installation* L3 *Delivered in partnership with JTL DENTAL AND PHARMACY • Dental Nurse L3 • Dental Practice Manager L4 • Pharmacy Services Assistant L2 • Pharmacy Technician L3 ENGINEERING • Engineering Operative L2 • Fabrication and Welding L2 • Engineering Fitter L3 • Metal Fabricator L3 • Engineering Technician L3 • Engineering Manufacturing Technician L4 • Electrical and Electronic Engineering L4 HAIR AND BEAUTY • Hair Professional L2 • Advanced and Creative Hair Professional L3 • Beauty Therapist L2 • Wellbeing and Holistic Therapist L3 SCIENCE • Lab Technician L3 • Technician Scientist L5 WHAT WE OFFER Preston College offers a full suite of higher apprenticeships at Level 4 and Level 5 suitable for those who are looking at supervisory or management level roles. For more information about the higher apprenticeships we offer, or how you can upskill in your current role, please contact the apprenticeship team on T 01772 225768 E appsinfo@preston.ac.uk
5 www.preston.ac.uk Employers recognise their ability to hire the best of the best. They are on the lookout for those who have more than just a qualification, which is why apprenticeships are quickly becoming ever more popular with school leavers, college graduates and those already in employment who wish to upskill. Apprenticeships can benefit you and help you achieve your career goals and aspirations by allowing you to: Earn a salary Learn significant and relevant skills in your industry Become passionate for delivering results and achieve the employer’s core objectives Gain significant problem solving skills Communicate effectively with colleagues and customers Build a recognised positive attitude within your workplace Become commercially focused and gain experience in dealing with customer needs Become self-assured to work confidently and professionally Work towards an industry approved qualification with our industry experienced tutors Progress from Level 2 through to Degree Level Help you gain a permanent job role with your employer upon completion BENEFITS OF BEING AN APPRENTICE
6 www.preston.ac.uk
www.preston.ac.uk FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS WHAT IS AN APPRENTICESHIP? An apprenticeship is a technical course which is predominantly taught in the workplace through on and off the job training and accompanying study, normally through a day release to college. As an apprentice, you will be employed by an organisation who will train you and support you throughout your learning, whilst also paying you a salary. Depending on the level of study and the industry you choose, your apprenticeship could take you between 12 – 48 months to complete. WHO CAN BE AN APPRENTICE? As long as you are 15 years old or over, have officially left school and not in full time education, you can become an apprentice. As an apprentice, you must have an employer as they will support you through your apprenticeship and invest in your training. Many apprenticeships, just like other courses, will have entry requirements, so please do check this with a member of our team or visit the Preston College website. HOW MUCH WILL I EARN? Your salary will be determined by your employer who’ll take into consideration your age, experience and potential. The minimum wage for an apprentice under 18 years of age is £5.28* per hour. This is the national minimum apprenticeship wage and you will be paid this for the first 12 months of your apprenticeship. After that, it will rise to at least the national minimum wage for your age group. If you are upskilling in a current role, your salary may stay the same. Details can be found at: www.gov.uk/national-minimum-wage-rates IS AN APPRENTICESHIP AS GOOD AS ANY OTHER LEVEL OF STUDY? Yes. An apprenticeship programme is as challenging, if not more so, than any other type of study within a college or university setting. As an apprentice you will be expected to work a minimum of 30 hours a week in addition to your studies. It is hard work, but employers recognise the effort required to succeed and will know that you have shown a great level of dedication and commitment to your job role and qualification. DO APPRENTICESHIPS HAVE ENTRY REQUIREMENTS? All of our apprenticeships at Preston College have entry criteria and some will differ from others depending on the type of programme and level you wish to study. It is definitely worth visiting our website to see what the entry criteria is for each programme. All apprenticeships will require a level of maths and English. If you have not achieved your maths and English at grade C/4 or above, you may be required to study these alongside your apprenticeship. Prospective apprentices may be asked to take an initial assessment and college interview. HOW WILL I BE ASSESSED? Assessment for an apprenticeship is continuous throughout your programme, through a mixture of on and off-the-job training. Most apprenticeships require written assignments, workplace or industry demonstrations and portfolio building. You’ll be assigned a work-based-tutor who’ll support and train you throughout, and a mentor in your workplace who’ll ensure you’re on track with your work. At the end of the apprenticeship you’ll be required to take an End Point Assessment (EPA) to assess you on everything you’ve learnt on your apprenticeship. Training for this begins three months before the end of your apprenticeship, giving you plenty of time to prepare. WHAT IF I DON’T HAVE AN EMPLOYER? Don’t worry. Sometimes it can be hard to find the right role and employer to suit you. However, to make sure you have a place at college in September, we strongly recommend that you accept a college place as a backup. Our apprenticeship specialists will continue to work with you and our employer partners to find you the right apprenticeship. As soon as you secure employment, you can transfer from your college course onto your apprenticeship, no matter how far along you are on your course. FOR ADVICE ON FINDING AN EMPLOYER SEE p33 7 *correct as of April 2023
8 www.preston.ac.uk COREY AUTOMOTIVE TECHNICIAN LEVEL 4 AT LEYLAND TRUCKS ” “I didn’t come through the typical apprenticeship route straight from school, which is always a surprise to people. I was in my 20s and joined Leyland Trucks through agency work. It was only as I was working in this setting that I realised how much I enjoyed the job and wanted to learn more. When the apprenticeship applications opened I applied and was fortunate enough to be offered one of the positions. I love that my role allows me to work across all different areas of the organisation. It helps me to meet new people with totally different skills and backgrounds, which helps me with my learning. APPRENTICE PROFILE
9 www.preston.ac.uk AUTOMOTIVE TECHNOLOGIES The automotive department at Preston College forms part of our industry-standard iSTEM Centre. Through our apprenticeship provision, Preston College provides apprentices with access to purpose built workshops, an array of light and heavy goods vehicles and immediate access to highly experienced industry experts, allowing you to put newly taught theory and skills into practice on live, demonstration cars. On these programmes, you will develop a wide knowledge set, allowing you to confidently carry out maintenance and everyday repairs on cars and HGVs, right through to more complex work such as diagnostics and servicing. The apprenticeship programmes also include a unique combination of technical, retail and customer service skills, allowing you to gain transferable skills that are so valuable in the industry. • Autocare Technician L2 • Light Vehicle Service and Maintenance Technician L3 • Heavy Vehicle Service and Maintenance Technician L3
10 www.preston.ac.uk Apprenticeships play an important role at Bowker Motor Group. As a Lancashire-based family business, Bowker is always looking for meaningful ways to invest in the county’s future. All staff enjoy support as their careers develop. Apprentices too enjoy the opportunity to play an active role as they begin their learning journey in a wide range of technology and service skills. More than 350 apprentices throughout the company’s history have enjoyed roles at Bowker Motor Group’s car and motorcycle dealerships in Preston, Blackburn and Osbaldeston including Bowker BMW and MINI centres, Bowker Motorrad and Bowker Ribble Valley. Today, apprentices work alongside several managers and executive team members who started out just like them. Those former-apprentice role models show just how important apprentices are to the business and explain why Bowker continues to be such a huge advocate of the apprenticeship system. Only recently, Bowker Motor Group revealed a new automotive technologies partnership with Preston College. This will help apprentices learn a breadth of knowledge, skills and behaviours in their specific area. The aim is to help apprentices to become confident in carrying out maintenance and everyday repairs on vehicles, cars and motorcycles, through to more complex diagnostics and servicing. This new strategic relationship with Preston College is the perfect collaboration between two organisations who share the same values and vision for local learners. Bowker also operates an apprentice loyalty programme. Apprentices joining the group receive a £7,000 cash bonus after seven years of service. BOWKER MOTOR GROUP EMPLOYER SPOTLIGHT
11 www.preston.ac.uk DIDAR LIGHT GOODS VEHICLE TECHNICIAN LEVEL 3 AT BOWKER BMW APPRENTICE PROFILE ” “ Didar is in his third year of the automotive technologies apprenticeship with Bowker Ribble Valley in Osbaldeston. Didar came to the UK from Iraq six years ago. Unable to speak any English, he enrolled onto the Preston College ‘English for Speakers of Other Languages’ course. Working from Entry 2 to Entry 3, he then enrolled onto the Level 1 Automotive programme. He started his Level 3 apprenticeship with Bowker Ribble Valley after completion of this course. Didar says: “When I enrolled at Preston College I could barely say ‘hi’ and ‘bye’. But everything has taken off since then. I chose automotive technology because I hoped it would offer me important transferable skills. “I am studying a practical course. The support I enjoy at Preston College helps. But it makes a big difference when you combine it with the first-hand experience at Bowker. It is a great way to develop my learning by watching and speaking to colleagues too.”
12 www.preston.ac.uk ” “The Level 3 Customer Service apprenticeship is continuing to help me acquire my goal for making a positive influence to the wider society by dealing with adult learners who are 19 years of age and over with different backgrounds and abilities. The course has provided me with both practical and academic knowledge about interacting and facilitating learners through online systems, on the telephone and in person. Despite it being early on in my apprenticeship, the team and other staff members have already made me feel that I belong. I feel truly blessed to be able to study in the same institute as to where I work. I also have the opportunity to work with various colleagues across college, as our duties interlink, which helps us to provide learners with the best experience possible in order for them to progress further in wider life. The best part for me, is that I am able to interact and witness the impact of what we do by being able to support on events, as well as meeting and greeting prospective new learners to the College. APPRENTICE PROFILE MOMINA CUSTOMER SERVICE SPECIALIST LEVEL 3 AT PRESTON COLLEGE
13 www.preston.ac.uk BUSINESS AND MANAGEMENT Our Business and Management sector apprenticeships are designed to equip you with the transferable knowledge and skills, the theory and the practice to help you support and engage within different parts of the organisation you work in. Offering a variety of apprenticeship programmes from AAT Accounting through to Team Leading and HR, these apprenticeships are designed to provide you with the opportunities to acquire key skills in the business sector. You will work within a professional setting, adding value and contributing to operational efficiencies, whilst interacting with both internal and external customers in a professional way; working across teams and resolving issues when needed. You will be expected to deliver your responsibilities efficiently and with integrity, whilst showing a professional attitude. The roles involve demonstrating strong communications skills and adopting a proactive approach to developing skills. You will be expected to show initiative, manage priorities and demonstrate problem solving abilities. • AAT Accounts Assistant L2 • AAT Assistant Accountant L3 • AAT Professional Accounting Taxation Technician L4 • Payroll Administrator L3 • Customer Service Practitioner L2 • Customer Service Specialist L3 • Business Administrator L3 • HR Support L3 • Team Leader L3 • Learning and Skills Mentor L4 • Associate Project Manager L4 • Operations/Departmental Manager L5 • Leadership in Adult Care L5
14 www.preston.ac.uk With a recent recruitment drive at their Preston facility, Zebra Technologies approached Preston College to attract local talent through hiring a group of apprentices - to provide opportunities for growth and development and to help support them build this new and crucial pipeline of talent for their business. Amy Kearns, Senior HR Representative at Zebra Technologies says: “We wanted to build a partnership with a local college. We were also impressed with the investment in the STEM centre and enthusiastic dedicated staff. Hiring apprentices is a productive and effective way to grow talent and develop a motivated, skilled and qualified workforce.” Amy continues: “Apprentices come with fresh ideas and new perspectives. They are eager to learn and grow and so it is vital that, as a global organisation, we are future proofing the business and hiring new talent and a new generation of workers that will help us grow. Not only that, apprentices are able to teach us new ways, innovative ways and relay the new technologies in a way that suits our business needs.” ZEBRA TECHNOLOGIES EMPLOYER SPOTLIGHT
15 www.preston.ac.uk STUART TEAM LEADER LEVEL 3 AT ZEBRA TECHNOLOGIES APPRENTICE PROFILE ” “The apprenticeship has been very helpful in gaining the knowledge and confidence in becoming the best Team Leader I can be. I have learned a lot about myself and look forward to continuing my learning during the course. Both Zebra and Preston College have been very supportive during this time to give me the support for my apprenticeship to be successful. I would recommend this course to anybody who is looking to progress within their business.
16 www.preston.ac.uk ” “I chose to do an apprenticeship with Rowland Homes because I like the idea of experiencing work onsite and learning whilst at the same time earning a salary. Hopefully after the training and learning I will become a fully qualified bricklayer which will lead to future success. APPRENTICE PROFILE TYLER BRICKLAYING LEVEL 2 APPRENTICE AT ROWLAND HOMES
17 www.preston.ac.uk CONSTRUCTION AND THE BUILT ENVIRONMENT Our bespoke construction skills centre has recently benefited from a £1m renovation to allow our apprentices to have access to the latest technology and equipment, combined with high-specification industry-standard facilities with purpose built workshops for brickwork, carpentry, tiling and painting & decorating activities. This brand new development will support our industry-trained staff to further enhance the delivery of high quality technical learning in construction. You will be taught by highly experienced, industry experts who are passionate about their trade and dedicated to training apprentices to be highly skilled in their chosen trade area. In addition, Preston College offers more advanced programmes for those looking to progress through the qualification levels, or for those already working in the industry and looking to upskill. • Bricklaying L2 • Interior Systems Installer (Plastering & Drylining) L2 • Plastering L2 • Wall and Floor Tiling L2 • Painting and Decorating L2 • Civil Engineering - Highways Maintenance Skilled Operative L2 - Groundworker L2 • Property Maintenance Operative L2 • Wood Product Manufacturing Operative L2 • Roof Slater and Tiler L2 • Carpentry and Joinery - Site Carpentry L2 - Bench Joinery L2 • Advanced Carpentry and Joinery L3 • Construction Quantity Surveying Technician L4 • Construction Site Supervisor L4 • Construction Site Engineering Technician L4 • Building Services Engineering Technician L4
18 www.preston.ac.uk For years, Preston College has partnered with Rowland Homes, to help train future bricklayers and joiners. With sites across Lancashire, Rowland Homes and Preston College are able place apprentices across different sites to enrich their learning journey; giving apprentices an insight into real life projects and the chance to work with wider Rowland teams. Linda Gaskin, Construction Secretary at Rowland Homes says: “We recruit six apprentices with Preston College every year. We make sure that collaboratively, with the College, our apprentices learn new and relevant skills within their trade. We ensure through experiential teaching and learning that they gain as much real-life work experience on a construction site. They are all led by a team of industry experts and each have a mentor that supports them and guides them through their learning. Knowing that the apprentices come to college one day a week to learn the practical skills, enriches their apprenticeship journey. The partnership with Preston College works well and our apprentices are thriving. “On successful completion of the apprenticeship, Rowland Homes supports the apprentices with their next steps towards becoming a permanent member of the team or supporting their career progression to pastures new.” ROWLAND HOMES EMPLOYER SPOTLIGHT
19 Plumbing, gas and electrical make up the key elements of the Building Services sector, which is a fundamental area for Construction and the Built Environment. Apprenticeships in plumbing, gas and electrical are an ideal starting point for those looking to pave their way into a career within one of the biggest industries in the world. As a plumbing and domestic heating technician you will plan, select, install, service, commission and maintain all aspects of plumbing and heating systems. You could find yourself working inside or outside a property, so customer service skills and being tidy and respectful are important qualities, as you could often find yourself working in customers’ homes as well as on building sites Comparably, electricians install, maintain and repair electrical systems in industrial, commercial and domestic environments. You might work in both indoor and outdoor settings. Electrical equipment and systems may include switchboards, motors, cables, fuses, thermal relays, fault current protection switches, heating, lighting, air conditioning and metering equipment, as well as crime and fire alarm systems and renewable energy technologies. You will be able to work on your own proficiently and without immediate supervision in the most efficient and economical manner. Whichever pathway you choose throughout your apprenticeship, you will develop a broad range of skills to progress into employment. You will be working on a combination of practical and theoretical elements; covering essentials such as health and safety, pipework, fabrication, installation and repair as well as plumbing science and technology. Delivered in partnership with JTL 19 PLUMBING, GAS AND ELECTRICAL • Plumbing & Gas L3 • Electrical Installation L3 For a plumbing, gas or electrical apprenticeship, please apply directly through JTL at www.application.jtltraining.com
20 www.preston.ac.uk ” “I’m thoroughly enjoying my dental nursing apprenticeship at The Lytham Dental Clinic. Everyone here made me feel welcome instantly, it’s such a lovely environment. They all take their time and patience when teaching and explaining things to me, making sure I completely understand everything. The apprenticeship wasn’t something I had naturally thought about. I was studying performing arts at a local college but a few months in, I realised that it really wasn’t for me. I saw that Preston College ran a number of apprenticeships and I enquired about the Dental Nurse apprenticeship. I can honestly say that I have not looked back. This apprenticeship perfectly combines the right amount of on the job and off the job training and I am looking forward to qualifying and becoming a fully-trained Dental Nurse with Lytham Dental Clinic. APPRENTICE PROFILE MILLY DENTAL NURSE LEVEL 3 AT THE LYTHAM DENTAL CLINIC
21 www.preston.ac.uk DENTAL AND PHARMACY SERVICES ASSISTANT We are privileged to have a direct link with local dental and pharmacy employers who are keen to train the future talents within these two vitally important industries. Dental Nurses assist with all aspects of patient care from simple check-ups right through to supporting specialist treatment and minor surgery. If you’re interested in science and oral health, this is the perfect career path for you. At Preston College our dental team has been awarded the ‘Skills for Health Quality Kite Mark’ for their outstanding commitment to providing excellent dental training on our full-time and apprenticeship programmes, ensuring you receive the very best training in this field. Those who wish to work in a pharmacy will typically prepare, supply and dispense medicines and products prescribed for patients under the supervision of a registered pharmacist. Working in the community or at a hospital, you will meet lots of people and gain the skills and knowledge you need to work in the industry. As an apprentice, part of your learning will be located in our iSTEM Centre where we have an exceptional range of facilities and equipment to provide a realistic learning experience. You will also find cutting-edge technology to aid learning, including 3D televisions and projectors, and HD technology. • Dental Nurse L3 • Dental Practice Manager L4 • Pharmacy Services Assistant L2 • Pharmacy Technician L3
22 www.preston.ac.uk East Lancashire Hospitals NHS Trust (ELHT) was established in 2003 and provides high quality healthcare services primarily to the residents of East Lancashire and Blackburn with Darwen. They employ 8,000 staff, some of whom are award winning and internationally renowned for their work and achievements, and treat over 700,000 patients a year - from the most serious of emergencies to planned operations and procedures. Their high quality healthcare services are offered across five hospital sites and various community sites. East Lancashire Hospitals NHS Trust is a well-renowned teaching hospital, and apprentices play a big part in the development and growth of their teaching schools. Over the years, the ELHT school has built a strong relationship with Preston College and hire pharmacy technicians to support the future growth of their hospital. Many new and exciting roles have been made available for pharmacy technicians, not only in hospitals and community pharmacies, but also in prisons, primary care environments, GP surgeries and community mental health teams. For ELHT, their aim is to continue to promote and hire school/college learners who are looking to start a career in pharmacy and appoint as many apprentices as they can. EAST LANCASHIRE HOSPITALS NHS TRUST EMPLOYER SPOTLIGHT
23 www.preston.ac.uk ABIGAIL PHARMACY TECHNICIAN LEVEL 3 AT EAST LANCASHIRE HOSPITALS NHS TRUST APPRENTICE PROFILE ” “Working at East Lancashire Hospitals NHS Trust has been incredibly rewarding for me. The level of support and teaching that I gain on a daily basis both from my mentor and team at the hospital, and from my tutor at the College, has been exceptional. I am learning so much and each day brings many different aspects and challenges that I love working on. I am thoroughly enjoying my apprenticeship and would recommend this route for anyone thinking about a career in pharmacy. I never would have thought or imagined that this opportunity would be available to me when I left school. It has been through the help of the College and the Trust that I am now in a career that I love, whilst also gaining a qualification.
24 www.preston.ac.uk ” “It is a great experience to be an apprentice at Zebra Technologies. I enjoy working in a friendly and collaborative environment where I feel supported by my colleagues. My apprentice role has built my confidence and enabled me to develop essential engineering skills and knowledge whilst also working towards a professional qualification. APPRENTICE PROFILE HARRISON ENGINEERING TECHNICIAN LEVEL 3 AT ZEBRA TECHNOLOGIES
25 www.preston.ac.uk ENGINEERING A career in engineering offers the opportunity for creative thinking, experimentation and innovative design and development. Engineering is arguably one of the most in demand professions in the world, and is often at the leading edge of innovation, revolution and modernisation, which plays a significant role in shaping our society and its future. Almost every sector of every type of business requires an element of engineering support, whether that be electrical, mechanical or manufacturing. As an engineer you may have the opportunity to work in construction, aeronautics, biomedicine, software design and more. As an apprentice, your main duties could include; developing new products for companies or individuals to use; provide maintenance to current products to enhance use; and design new machines to improve an organisations efficiencies. Our engineering department sits within our iSTEM centre, which boasts the very best in facilities, equipment and technology. Combine this with the industry qualified and experienced tutors, and you will gain an unprecedented learning experience within a range of multi-skilled practical roles. • Engineering Operative L2 • Fabrication and Welding L2 • Engineering Fitter L3 • Metal Fabricator L3 • Engineering Technician L3 • Engineering Manufacturing Technician L4 • Electrical and Electronic Engineering L4
26 www.preston.ac.uk Leyland Trucks has an industry-leading reputation for investing in local talent. This long and proud history of training has created one of the most sought-after apprenticeship programmes in Lancashire, with roles mirroring current and future skills needs. Apprentices are a critical part of Leyland Trucks succession planning to ensure the continued success of their business. Leyland Trucks’ 1,000+ workforce comprises numerous ex-apprentices who continue to progress, with past apprentices operating in departments such as Purchasing, Operations and Design Engineering, to name but a few. This is thanks to their highly skilled HR and Talent teams who continue to leverage the diversity of career options that apprenticeships can bring, and creates clear pathways for progression, which enable apprentices to gain exciting careers for life within Leyland Trucks. As one of the largest commercial vehicle manufacturers globally, it is critical that all apprentices receive structured rotation programmes, to enable them to develop a 360-degree view of the business and gain broad skills, knowledge and insight from different areas, whilst showcasing the variety of roles in which they could specialise. Leyland Trucks has built an excellent relationship with Preston College and we are hugely receptive to their current and future needs. As technology changes, so do the trucks they manufacture, and Leyland Trucks works closely with the College to build new courses and adapt the curriculum to mirror the future direction of business, and ensure that collaboratively, we deliver work-ready talent. LEYLAND TRUCKS EMPLOYER SPOTLIGHT
27 www.preston.ac.uk LIBBY METAL FABRICATOR AND WELDER LEVEL 3 AT LEYLAND TRUCKS LTD APPRENTICE PROFILE ” “Doing an apprenticeship in fabrication and welding is the best decision I have made yet! I am in my third year of this apprenticeship with Leyland Trucks and Preston College and I am still learning so much. Every day is different. I can be working on a task individually or I can be working as part of a larger team. This means I regularly get to work with apprentices my age and we all get on really well. The training I am receiving is brilliant and along with that also comes new challenges and the development of new skills.
28 www.preston.ac.uk ” “My apprenticeship is so much fun. You get to be with, and work with, people that are really nice and support you through it all. I would definitely recommend an apprenticeship because you’re earning a salary whilst learning on the job. Preston College is really supportive in both the theory and the practical aspects of hairdressing and I am learning so much. Eventually I might want to have my own salon, and the skills I have learnt on my apprenticeship will help me do that. APPRENTICE PROFILE LIV HAIR PROFESSIONAL LEVEL 2 AT LOUISA JOHN HAIR & BEAUTY
29 www.preston.ac.uk HAIR AND BEAUTY An apprenticeship in the hair and beauty sector can be very rewarding. From opening your own salon, to working in film and TV, or gaining employment aboard some of the world’s most luxurious cruise ships, the wealth of opportunities in the hair and beauty sectors are vast and hugely varied. Housed in our purpose built salon, Elements, our hair and beauty department at Preston College provides you with access to live clients, real salon environments and industry experienced tutors, who have spent years perfecting their trades. As an apprentice, you will learn new techniques in a creative environment, whilst also learning how to work with your clients. It can also be financially rewarding as this industry and its services sees consistent demand, which in turn increases employment opportunities. As a Beauty Therapist, you will find yourself working in one of the largest, most trusted and continually expanding industries. Your work environment can vary in size, style and ambience; from cruise ships and large corporate spa resorts, through to smaller bespoke salons and spa hotels. Similarly, as a Hair Professional and working in a salon, you will learn job specific skills, earn a salary and attend college on an agreed rota to gain your qualification. You will meet new people and build up regular clients, providing advanced services such as colouring, cutting and styling. Both professions require a good understanding of health and safety as well as a technical understanding of the products used in most areas of hair and beauty. You will also cover reception duties, as a well as ordering stock and maintaining records and accounts. • Hair Professional L2 • Advanced and Creative Hair Professional L3 • Beauty Therapist L2 • Wellbeing and Holistic Therapy L3
30 www.preston.ac.uk Ribby Hall, a five-star holiday resort set over 100 acres of Lancashire countryside, has partnered with Preston College for over six years to support the learning of beauty therapy apprentices. Since identifying the Spa area as an area of growth, Ribby Hall has created a hugely successful and rewarding ‘Apprenticeship Academy’ and recruits Beauty Therapist apprentices every year. As a leading Spa Hotel in the region, Ribby Hall ensures that all of their therapists have the technical and interpersonal skills needed to deliver an exceptional service. Their apprenticeship journey includes learning from a dedicated, professional centre of education, combined with working in an award winning, holistic Spa. As Ribby Hall Village Spa Hotel expands, they are growing their teams and working alongside Preston College to train hard-working individuals that can take on the roles. Apprentices are exposed to and integrated into all aspects of the Spa business, which provides further learning opportunities. Ribby Hall Village Spa Hotel is able to have each new group of apprentices mentored by the previous year’s apprenticeship group. This is a rewarding experience that provides development and additional growth opportunities for all apprentices. RIBBY HALL VILLAGE SPA HOTEL EMPLOYER SPOTLIGHT
31 www.preston.ac.uk LAUREN WELLBEING & HOLISTIC THERAPY LEVEL 3 AT LOUISA JOHN HAIR & BEAUTY APPRENTICE PROFILE ” “I completed my Level 2 Beauty Therapy apprenticeship with Preston College and I am currently undertaking my Level 3 Wellbeing and Holistic Therapy apprenticeship. I have really enjoyed the apprenticeship programme and I have found the College environment supportive throughout. Working at Louisa John Hair & Beauty has been brilliant and I couldn’t have asked for a better team to work with. They have supported me throughout the apprenticeship and have given me the opportunity to develop my skills. At the beginning I did worry that I would miss out on the full college lifestyle by studying towards an apprenticeship, but the combination of working with a day release to college has been fantastic and I don’t feel like I’ve missed out at all.
32 www.preston.ac.uk SCIENCE A science apprenticeship can take you into all sorts of fascinating careers. There are over 1.2 million people employed in primary science based roles in the UK, working in bio-sciences, chemical sciences and physical sciences. The biotechnology industry is made up largely of small to medium sized enterprises (SMEs), and has become huge in recent years, and is still expanding rapidly. A laboratory technician may carry out both routine and one-off laboratory testing and perform a variety of technical support functions across the organisation. This allows scientists to concentrate on, and perform, the more complex analytical processes in the laboratory. In any context working safety and ethically is paramount and many companies operate under highly regulated conditions because of the need to control the quality and safety of products, for example, medicines, food and drink. Laboratory technicians are expected to work both individually and as part of a laboratory team. • Laboratory Technician L3 • Technician Scientist L5
33 www.preston.ac.uk To be an apprentice you must have an employer. If you are not already in a job and are looking to find an employer, here are five really easy steps to help you succeed. Preston College’s matching service provides strong relationships with hundreds of employers across the region who are waiting to hire you. So whether you are a school leaver, college leaver, or already within employment, we would love to hear from you! Speak to one of our apprenticeship specialists by calling 01772 225768 or email appsinfo@preston.ac.uk VISIT LOCAL EMPLOYERS Visiting businesses demonstrates that you possess initiative, confidence and drive. These are key attributes that employers look for in a potential apprentice. VOLUNTEER/ WORK EXPERIENCE Make a lasting impression by giving a local business a helping hand – it could be your golden ticket to employment! UPDATE YOUR CV Make sure you stand out from the crowd with the best CV possible – it’s the best way to sell yourself to an employer. CONTACT PRESTON COLLEGE Our Apprenticeship Team work with hundreds of local employers and will be able to help put you in touch with businesses across the region that are recruiting. WORD OF MOUTH Ask your friends and/or family if they know of any local companies who are looking to hire an apprentice. FINDING AN EMPLOYER
34 Your CV is your biggest selling tool so make sure that you get it noticed! To get you started, here are a few handy tips to make your CV stand out from the crowd… Keep it relevant and current Type it up on a computer and keep it in one style Spell check throughout (even your name!) Ensure it is clear and concise Keep it below two A4 sides Ask someone to proof read and check it for you If you are sending it direct to an employer – send it with a covering letter MAKE SURE YOU INCLUDE: Your Details Full name, address and contact number. Personal Statement A small paragraph to introduce yourself and a brief description of your skills. Education Include your school, college, university with your subject and grades. Employment Put your most recent employment first and include dates, job titles and duties. Include any additional work experience and/or voluntary work. Additional Information This could include: a full UK driving licence, sports achievement, Duke of Edinburgh Award or if you have held a position of authority, for example, school councillor, form representative or sports leader. Interests Expand on these, for example, “I enjoy tennis and I am part of a county club. I regularly compete in competitions.” DID YOU KNOW? Preston College has launched a free online platform for prospective apprentices to help you create a CV. Our Careers Coach platform will give you the tools to build a ready-made CV for employers and will offer you impartial careers guidance and suggested career paths. Please visit preston.emsicc.com PREPARE A GOOD CV
35 www.preston.ac.uk INTERVIEW PREPARATION THINGS TO REMEMBER: Dress smartly and prepare your outfit the night before Find out where the interview is taking place and plan your route the day before Read the job and person specification to understand what is expected in the role Prepare answers, with examples, to ensure you demonstrate the skills required Stay calm, take your time, and speak clearly and confidently Always answer truthfully and use examples Sell yourself and your skills to the employers, keep things positive and focused Prepare a few questions to ask the employer at the end of the interview Make sure you know what is written on your own CV and are able to talk about it. REMEMBER NOT TO: Be late Criticise former employers or colleagues Slouch in your seat, or do anything that makes you look uninterested Discuss controversial topics that are not relevant to the job role Fail to attend your interview. If for any reason you are unable to attend, please inform the Apprenticeship Team at the earliest opportunity.
Preston College St Vincent’s Road Preston PR2 8UR T 01772 225768 E appsinfo@preston.ac.uk www.preston.ac.uk/apply /prestoncollege If you didn’t find the apprenticeship you were looking for, please get in touch and let us know as we regularly introduce new provision throughout the academic year. All of the latest information is on the Preston College website. All information contained within this guide is correct at the time of going to print (June 2023). Some circumstances beyond the control of Preston College may mean that it is not possible to provide the education services outlined in this course guide. Examples include: minimum numbers required to run the apprenticeship not being met, the unanticipated departure or absence of key members of teaching staff and industrial action by staff or third parties. This list is not exhaustive. Information is subject to change at short notice and online learning elements may continue to be incorporated into all programmes. Course dates and/or times may also be changed at short notice due to matters outside of the College’s control. READY TO APPLY?
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