HOW DO APPRENTICESHIPS WORK
For example, some apprentices spend four days a week with their employer and one day a week at Sussex Downs College, while others undertake all their training in the workplace, with the College coming to the employer for their part of the programme.
Apprenticeships are work-based training programmes which lead to nationally recognised qualifications. Apprenticeships include a mixture of on-the-job and off-the-job training and are available at 3 different levels:
Apprenticeship programmes are made up of a framework of qualifications and normally consist of four main components of learning and development:
Intermediate – Level 2 (Equivalent to 5 GCSE’s at grade A-C) Advanced – Level 3 (Equivalent to 2 A Levels) Higher – Level 4 & 5 (Equivalent to a foundation degree) However the level of apprenticeship you are able to undertake with be dependent on the job responsibilities not on your academic ability. Apprenticeships are available in a wide range of industry sectors, with employers ranging from large national companies to small local businesses, and all Apprenticeship training programmes are designed by the Sector Skills Councils, who work with business representatives from the relevant industry sector to develop the course content. Apprentices must be employed for a minimum of 30 hours per week unless there are exceptional circumstances, and an Apprentice’s time is divided between working with their employer and undertaking training with the College.
Main Aim (NVQ): An assessed qualification, designed to judge the application of skills and knowledge to a competent level (sometimes this is combined with the technical certificate) 2) Technical Certificate: A taught qualification, designed to develop the essential skills and knowledge needed to be competent at the job role. This is sometimes embedded into the main aim and therefore does not form a separate qualification. Functional Skills: The application of essential communication, numeracy and ICT skills in the job role including personal learning and thinking skills. Employer Rights and Responsibilities: Knowledge of what is needed to comply with essential employment legislation to ensure fairness, equality, and health and safety in the workplace.
Technical Certificate
NVQ Certificate or Diploma Level 2, 3, 4 or 5
What is an Apprenticeship? Employment Rights & Responsibilities
Functional Skills
Personal Thinking & Learning Skills (PTLS)
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