Connexions Manchester

If you're over 16 you can apply for an apprenticeship. There are:

• Apprenticeships (equivalent to five good GCSE passes)
• Advanced Apprenticeships (equivalent to two A level passes)
• Higher Apprenticeships (lead to qualifications at NVQ Level 4 or, in some cases, a Foundation Degree)

You may need some GCSEs to start an Apprenticeship and depending on your grades in GCSE English and maths you might need to take a literacy and numeracy test.

There are Apprenticeships in lots job areas, and all involve working in a job, learning 'hands on' and studying for qualifications like NVQ 2 or 3, key skills and Technical certificates such as BTEC or City and Guilds.  The Higher Apprenticeship can also offer you the chance to take a Foundation Degree.

Money and Holidays

Apprenticeships are not covered by the National Minimum Wage legislation if the Apprentice aged 16-18 (or aged 19 and in the first year of an Apprenticeship), but all employed apprentices are paid a minimum Apprenticeship Allowance of £95.00 per week throughout the progamme.  However, some employers may pay more than this from the beginning of the  Apprenticeship / Advanced Apprenticeship, or possibly choose to increase the rate during the programme.    Apprentices get 20 days holiday.

How to get an apprenticeship

Apprenticeships are popular and it’s not that easy to get one, so you’ll need to talk to your Personal Adviser; they can tell you what’s available and help you to apply.

• Register with the Apprenticeship Vacancy Matching Service this service allows you to look for apprenticeships throughout the country.
• Check out the local apprenticeship vacancies at cnx2jobs.

Not Going to Uni also has information and advice.