Apprenticeships
FAQs
Here we try to answer some of your more frequently asked questions (FAQs). If you would like to know more about Apprenticeships, NVQ Training or Preston College Business Services, please contact us. We look forward to hearing from you!
How do Apprenticeships work?
Your employer pays your wages and gives you on-the-job training which allows you to achieve your apprenticeship in your chosen qualification. You'll also spend time at Preston College Business Services, gaining wider skills that will be useful in the workplace (eg team working, problem-solving, communication and using new technology). In addition, on most programmes you will study for a technical certificate which will give you further knowledge and understanding of your job. There are two types of Apprenticeship (Apprenticeships and Advanced Apprenticeships) and the one which is right for you will depend upon your experience and the job opportunities available in your area. However, all Apprenticeships include the following basic elements:
- An appropriate National Vocational Qualification (NVQ) at either Level 2 or Level 3
- Key Skills qualifications, including communication and application of number
- A technical certificate
- Other qualifications or requirements as specified by the particular occupation (eg Employment Rights and Responsibilities (ERR)
- What if I don't have a job?
We will help you find a suitable job in your chosen area, but you must also look for work yourself. There are many employers who are looking for young people to join their business and want them to receive further training to help improve their abilities. We will also check that your employer pays you a fair wage in accordance with the National Minimum Wage guidelines, and that they provide a safe working environment, including appropriate working hours and the permission of day release.
Where will I be trained?
You will be trained at Preston College Business Services for one day per week. We will also visit you in your place of work to provide guidance, training and assess you carrying out your normal job.
What training will I receive?
You will have your own learning plan and we will provide you with high quality training and specialist resources which best fit your choice of job. We will also provide Key Skills support, to help with your maths, English, computer and communication skills and can help you obtain other qualifications relevant to your occupation.
Will I get any help?
Yes. We will work alongside you all the way through your course. We will visit you in the workplace and monitor your progress. For more information about what help we can provide please go to the support services section.
What level of training is available and how long will it take?
Two levels of Apprenticeship are available:
Apprenticeships - suitable for most young people just starting a job and who want to get further training. Training is provided at NVQ Level 2 and normally takes from 12 to 24 months to complete. Completion time is dependent on many factors including ability and commitment.
Advanced Apprenticeships - for young people who already have experience in a job but want to improve their ability, job prospects, or become a technician, supervisor, or manager. Training is provided at NVQ Level 3 and normally takes 12- 24 months to complete. Completion time is dependent on many factors including ability and commitment.
How do NVQs relate to other qualifications?
There are five levels of NVQ: Level 1 = 5 GCSEs at grades D-G.
Level 2 = 5 GCSEs at grades A-C .
Level 3 = 2 A levels/1 vocational A level.
Level 4/5 = HNC, HND and degree level.
Which job areas do you cover?
We cover most of the popular job areas. To help you decide, see our subjects section where you can print off a copy of the course details. We will discuss the options with you in more detail when we invite you into Preston College Business Services to have your initial assessment and interview. Remember that no matter what subject you choose, you will need to be:
- Serious
- Committed
- Aware of your responsibilities to both yourself and the company who would employ you
- Prepared for study
- Realistic about the amount of work you may have to do
- Happy to work both as an individual and part of a team
- Able to use your own initiative
Apprenticeships can be demanding, but very rewarding!
Do I get holidays?
Like many other employees, you will receive at least 20 days holiday per year (and bank holidays). Your individual entitlement will be detailed in your terms of employment or training agreement. Just like any other job, your employer will have rules about how far in advance holidays need to be booked, and times that holidays cannot be taken.
Will it cost me anything?
No. And it will not cost your employer anything. All we ask is that you work hard for your qualification and your employer allows you both time off on a day release basis and helps you in the workplace to obtain your qualification.
