Choosing an apprenticeship is a significant decision because it would be the first step toward a career that will take you forward in life.
Suppose you believe that an apprenticeship is a suitable choice for you. In that case, you might be wondering what skills you need to get started or how the qualifications you already have affect the chances of being hired.
What do you need for an apprenticeship?
Certificate in General Education (GCSE)
Employers looking to hire apprentices do not often want the learner to have a degree. Specific jobs and companies do not need any qualifications for a learner to start their training. Apprenticeships are a hands-on approach to learning, and administrators who realise this will recognise that some people do not perform well in assessments but can succeed in a more “hands-on” approach.
Employers, on the other side, still choose – if you have at least 5 A*-C GCSEs, you have a fair chance of passing the interview process and landing a position.
If you settle on an apprenticeship, it’s a safe idea to prepare beforehand to practise. For example, getting good math and English grades would improve your application if you choose to work as an accountant.
Following GCSEs, you can start an apprenticeship at Level 2, with certain exceptions if you have extraordinarily high grades or similar industry experience. More details about the different grades of apprenticeship can be found here.
A Levels
While not everyone is informed that you can begin an apprenticeship after finishing your GCSEs, you can apply for a job if you have completed your A-Levels or have only completed your AS year.
As with GCSEs, obtaining qualifications unique to the area you choose to study is advantageous; moreover, the grades earned are not needed for success in the application process.
With the additional knowledge gained from this level of preparation, you would most likely begin your apprenticeship at Level 2 or 3, and in certain instances, Level 4.
Degree.
The previous qualifications can now be used to apply for apprenticeship positions. Regardless of your educational level or grade, you will likely be hired as an apprentice at this level. Therefore, you must work hard toward the degree, as this would significantly affect prospective employers.