A leading skills and training provider has compiled an essential guide to apprenticeships for this year’s National Apprenticeship Week.
Inspira, a leading employability skills charity across Lancashire and Cumbria, has shared its knowledge online from its team of specialists by creating a guide to help young people find out more about apprenticeships ahead of National Apprenticeship Week, February 6th-12th.
Inspira has put together its essential guide which covers the different types of apprenticeships available, how to apply, and how to pick the right apprenticeship.
Inspira Director, Sarah Harrington, said: “Apprenticeships are something that we get a lot of queries about. Young people are unsure of what is available to them and how to apply. Our team of experts are always available to help give advice.
“We’ve put together an essential guide to apprenticeships on our website, which we hope will help people to get some more clarity on how to move forward, and the Inspira team are there to help with the next steps.
“Additionally people aged over 24 often don’t realise that adult apprenticeships are available to them. It’s a case of knowing where to look, and that’s where Inspira comes in.
Inspira offers apprenticeships in its own offices. Over the past year it has employed 3 apprentices across the North-West.
Amy Blyth, Admin Apprentice at Inspira’s Blackpool office, said: “I found my apprenticeship with Inspira at a really key time for me. I was unsure where to go with my career, and Inspira has been an amazing choice for me. They provide so much training, including mental health support and financial advice. I’ve learnt so much already during my apprenticeship. I love that I am learning on the job – it’s really fulfilling.”
Apprenticeship Week takes place on February 6-12, under the theme of ‘Skills for Life’. The week will reflect on how apprenticeships can help individuals to develop the skills and knowledge required for a rewarding career and help businesses to develop a talented workforce that is equipped with skills for the future.
Inspira’s guide to help you find out more about apprenticeships:
- There are four different levels of apprenticeship available:
- Intermediate – equivalent to five good GCSE passes. This is a great starting point for anyone over 16 who wants to learn some basic skills. They are usually 1-2 years long and give an equivalent NVQ level 2/BTEC
- Advanced – equivalent to two A-level passes
- Higher – equivalent to the first stages of higher education, can be up to level 7. Entry requirements usually are A-levels or equivalent.
- Degree – gives you an undergraduate degree once completed and also provides skills-based learning.
2. Reasons to do an apprenticeship
- You gain practical and technical skills
- You learn soft skills and people skills such as teamwork, communication and time management
- You receive a salary, including holiday and sick pay
- You receive training for a specific job role
- You gain vocational qualifications and have the opportunity to improve your English and Math’s grades if you need to.
3. Top tips from Inspira:
- Do your research – not all companies are reputable even if they offer apprenticeships
- Be enthusiastic about going to work and show the skills you already have
- Expect competition – when applying for an apprenticeship, expect competition but don’t let it discourage you. Places are limited so just ensure you are prepared for the application process
- Know what you want and what you have to offer
- Go the extra mile – try different approaches and follow up until you get a definite yes or no.
4. How to find an apprenticeship:
- A good first step is to register on the government’s “Find an Apprenticeship” website. You can set up alerts to keep you updated about live vacancies in your interested area.
- Look at job websites.
- Look regularly at local and national employer websites. If there’s a company you’re interested in check their website or even send a speculative email
- You can apply directly to training organisations and colleges that offer apprenticeships
- Speak to Inspira. Book an appointment to speak with one of our advisors. And visit its website for more information and guidance.
The Inspira National Apprenticeship Week guide 2023 is available here: https://www.inspira.org.uk/national-apprenticeship-week
To learn more about adult apprenticeships, please visit: https://www.inspira.org.uk/adult-apprenticeships
