FAQs
What are the entry requirements of an Apprenticeship?
Entry requirements vary – some technical Apprenticeships, for example, require high GCSE grades in Maths, English and Science. To start an Advanced Apprenticeship you should ideally have five GCSEs (Grade C or above) or have completed an Apprenticeship. However, the most important requirements are that you must be aged 16 or over, you must be living in England and not taking part in full-time education.
Can Newcastle College help me find an employer?
Yes we can assist you in an employer search, please speak to our Business Contact team who can advise you on the procedure.
Experience has shown that if you are proactive about finding an Apprenticeship and contact employers direct, they are more likely to be interested in your application. You can do this by sending off your CV to companies you would like to work for, visiting businesses you are interested in and responding to Apprenticeship adverts in local papers. You may also find it useful to check out employer websites for job vacancies.
How much will I get paid?
From the 1st October 2011 a National Minimum Wage (NMW) for apprentices has been introduced for young people aged 16-18 and those aged over 19 in the first year of their Apprenticeship.
The new rate is £2.60 per hour. The new NMW applies to time working plus time spent training as this is also part of the Apprenticeship. Anyone not covered by the age category above will be entitled to the NMW appropriate to their age. More information can be found at www.direct.gov.uk/nmw.
An employer can choose to pay you more but this is at their discretion. You will need to ensure that you confirm your salary before you start your Apprenticeship. As is the case of all employees aged over 16, all apprentices must still pay tax and national insurance on their income.
How long does it take to do an Apprenticeship?
An Apprenticeship can take between 12 – 24 months to complete depending on the subject and the level you study.
Can I do my Apprenticeship with any employer?
Yes as long as they meet the regulation health and safety criteria and can offer you a safe place to work in, we will check over this before confirming your Apprenticeship.
Will I have to pay any fees to do an Apprenticeship?
No. The National Apprenticeship Service will pay the full cost of your training if you are aged 16–18. Your employer may be expected to contribute to your training costs if you are older.
Will I be supported by the college?
Yes, you will be assigned a dedicated Assessor. They will support you throughout the entire process, from sign-up and regulation checks, to helping you achieve your deadlines and successfully complete your Apprenticeship programme.
Can I do an Apprenticeship if I have a degree?
If you are a graduate you are eligible to do an Apprenticeship, however you will not qualify for funding. This means that your employer is responsible for paying your training costs. The only exception is if you have participated in New Deal, where you will qualify for Apprenticeship funding.
Where will an Apprenticeship take me?
The qualifications you receive as an apprentice will be recognised by any employer, anywhere in the country. If you want to go on to further study, an Advanced Apprenticeship is accepted by some universities as an entry qualification for a Foundation Degree.