{"id":16267,"date":"2024-02-06T11:04:46","date_gmt":"2024-02-06T11:04:46","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/migqxjzty5-staging.onrocket.site\/?p=16267"},"modified":"2024-02-06T14:26:11","modified_gmt":"2024-02-06T14:26:11","slug":"everything-you-need-to-know-about-national-apprenticeship-week","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.adzuna.co.uk\/blog\/everything-you-need-to-know-about-national-apprenticeship-week\/","title":{"rendered":"National Apprenticeship Week is here"},"content":{"rendered":"<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">ChatGPT\u2019s massive hype is not over since its debut last year. While some students and workers see it as a godsend, some see it as a threat to their jobs, stirring up debates over a potential robot takeover.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">We might be a job search engine powered by technology but we don\u2019t have a crystal ball to assert whether AI will be stealing all our jobs. From our experience, all we can tell is that, with or without AI, some jobs and skills are bound to be displaced as time flies.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Those of you who are still young and haven\u2019t narrowed down your career choice, check out the National Apprenticeship Week happening right now to figure out the professions and skills that could be resilient to disruption.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">In its 17th year, National Apprenticeship Week is a week-long celebration of all things apprenticeships. This year\u2019s theme is \u201cSkills for Life\u201d, emphasising apprenticeships as a great start to learn top in-demand skills that will set you up for a rewarding and resilient career.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Ready to kickstart your career and build your future? Here\u2019s how!<\/span><\/p>\n<h2>What is an apprenticeship?<\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">An apprenticeship is a job that trains you while you work. You\u2019ll learn how to do a specific role and gain hands-on experience while also getting paid and receiving benefits such as an annual leave allowance.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Every apprenticeship requires you to study for 20% of your working hours and you\u2019ll complete an End Point Assessment (EPA) at the end which will usually include a practical assessment and an interview element. Depending on the apprenticeship, it can take anywhere between one and 6 years to complete.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">As long as you\u2019re over 16, live in England, and aren\u2019t already in full-time education you can apply to become an apprentice. It doesn\u2019t matter if you\u2019ve worked before, and you have a previous qualification like a degree, some people find apprenticeships are a great way of changing careers later in life.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone wp-image-16271 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/www.adzuna.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/02\/studio-republic-fotKKqWNMQ4-unsplash.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1920\" height=\"1280\" \/><\/p>\n<h2>What qualifications do I need?<\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Apprenticeships range from level 2 to level 7 and depending on the level some apprenticeships may ask for previous qualifications such as English or Mathematics GCSE. If you don\u2019t have the level of qualification they require, you can go for a traineeship. Some employers will just ask you to commit to reaching that level while you work and study.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h2>What will I receive?<\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">As well as a wage and work experience you\u2019ll also receive an apprenticeship level, which is equivalent to an education level on completion of your apprenticeship.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.apprenticeships.gov.uk\/apprentices\/becoming-apprentice\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">levels<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> are as follows:\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n\n<table id=\"tablepress-112\" class=\"tablepress tablepress-id-112\">\n<thead>\n<tr class=\"row-1\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\"><\/td><th class=\"column-2\">Level <\/th><th class=\"column-3\">Equivalent education level<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n<tbody>\n<tr class=\"row-2\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">Intermediate<\/td><td class=\"column-2\">2<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">GCSE<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-3\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">Advanced<\/td><td class=\"column-2\">3<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">A level<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-4\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">Higher<\/td><td class=\"column-2\">4,5,6 and 7<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">Foundation degree and above<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-5\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\">Degree<\/td><td class=\"column-2\">6 and 7<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">Bachelor's or master's degree<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<!-- #tablepress-112 from cache -->\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">At the end of your apprenticeship, and if you pass your EPA, you\u2019ll receive a certificate. Some apprenticeships may also provide you with a specific qualification such as a degree or masters.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h2>How will National Apprenticeship Week help me?<\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you\u2019re interested in an apprenticeship then National Apprenticeship Week is a great time to get online.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Take to Twitter with #SkillsForLife to learn from former apprentices who are sharing how it\u2019s helped their career journey, and what apprentice life is like at different companies.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">You\u2019ll also gain an idea of the huge range of employers that take on apprentices, from international brands like Deloitte, to small and medium-sized businesses.\u00a0\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Additionally, the <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/naw.appawards.co.uk\/events\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">National Apprenticeships Week website<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> has listings of over 300 virtual and in-person events across the country, allowing you to network with potential employers, meet current apprentices, and ask any questions that you might have. This could be a great opportunity to suss out what level of apprenticeship you\u2019re eligible for and what type of role and company you\u2019re interested in.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">It\u2019s a week that is a fantastic opportunity to educate yourself. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone wp-image-16272 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/www.adzuna.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/02\/my-networking-apparel-bSnYj6VA0V8-unsplash.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1920\" height=\"1280\" \/><\/p>\n<h2>How do I apply for an apprenticeship?<\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">We currently have <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.adzuna.co.uk\/jobs\/apprenticeships\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">over 36,000 apprenticeships advertised on our site<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, with an average salary of \u00a326,900. You can refine your search by sector, location, company and role. You can also find apprenticeships on the <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.apprenticeships.gov.uk\/apprentices\/browse-apprenticeships\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">government website<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> for the scheme.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The application process will vary depending on the role and the level of apprenticeship you\u2019re applying for. For some, you may need to show evidence of previous education or work experience.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">In general, you\u2019ll be asked to provide an online or paper-based application and a CV and cover letter. You\u2019ll then be asked to attend an interview if your application has been shortlisted.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">There is no specific time that apprenticeships begin, unlike university courses that usually begin in September. Therefore, different companies will advertise roles at different points. If there\u2019s a specific scheme you\u2019re interested in at a certain time you may need to wait for their applications to open. Keep an eye out for opportunities that align with your interests.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2>What are employers looking for?<\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Every company is different and will have specific requirements outlined in the job description. In general, employers will be looking for strong soft skills.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Passion and interest in the role are key. Make sure that what you\u2019re applying for is something you\u2019re actually interested in. If you\u2019re not sure, try gaining some work experience or approaching current apprentices to gain an understanding of their current roles. Highlight your personality in your application, if you consider yourself friendly, confident, reliable, and self-motivated.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">One way employers often use to gauge your passion and interest is to see how much you know about the industry, the business and the role. Spend time researching a company online and reading about the subject area. You might even be able to find some documentaries that you could discuss as part of your application.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Interpersonal skills are also important. You\u2019ll have to be open to learning from colleagues and throwing yourself into your role. Showcase examples of teamwork in your application. This could include involvement in a sports team, volunteering, or previous work experience.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Keen to learn. It goes without saying as 20% of your time will be dedicated to studying. Apprenticeships are often a great opportunity to pick up practical skills so even if you\u2019ve found less practical subjects difficult at school that doesn\u2019t mean that an apprenticeship isn\u2019t for you. Whatever you decide, play to your strengths.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><strong><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"emoji\" draggable=\"false\" src=\"https:\/\/s.w.org\/images\/core\/emoji\/11\/svg\/1f4a1.svg\" alt=\"\" \/>Read more: <\/strong><\/span><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.adzuna.co.uk\/blog\/top-40-skill-based-keywords-to-pass-the-cv-screening-test\/\">Top 40 skill-based keywords to pass the CV screening test<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone wp-image-16273 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/www.adzuna.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/02\/antonio-janeski-CHVTt0aGbx0-unsplash.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1920\" height=\"1280\" \/><\/p>\n<h2>How do I create a standout application?<\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Whenever you\u2019re applying for a job, apprenticeship or not, always read and then re-read the job description and make sure you tailor your CV and application to reflect what they\u2019re looking for.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A fantastic tip is noting down your experiences and skills as you read the job specification so that you know exactly what to include.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Always make sure your CV is up to date before you send in your application, with the most recent work experience and education at the top. If you have limited experience and qualifications make the most out of your key skills, hobbies, and interests. It\u2019s also essential to proofread your work. You can use a variety of online tools including our free CV checker tool <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.adzuna.co.uk\/jobs\/value-my-cv\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">ValueMyCV<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> but it\u2019s always a great idea to ask someone to read over it for you too.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">During application questions, interview questions, or your cover letter, make the most out of your hobbies and passions and show how they demonstrate key skills. Volunteering could demonstrate motivation, dedication to a cause, and teamwork while running your local girl guide or scout group shows team leadership and confidence.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Apprenticeships are an exciting way to enter the workforce without necessarily going to university. They also mean you can earn money while you learn and develop, rather than having to take out a student loan. For the latest information regarding England\u2019s apprenticeship scheme and National Apprenticeship Week check out the government\u2019s <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.apprenticeships.gov.uk\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">apprenticeship website<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone wp-image-16274 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/www.adzuna.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/02\/linkedin-sales-solutions-VtKoSy_XzNU-unsplash.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1920\" height=\"1281\" \/><\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">We\u2019ve got lots of other blogs offering advice if you\u2019re looking to secure your first role. Check out <a href=\"https:\/\/www.adzuna.co.uk\/blog\/where-are-the-highest-paying-postcodes-in-the-uk\/\">Where are the highest paying postcodes in Great Britain?<\/a><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\u00a0and <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.adzuna.co.uk\/blog\/what-to-do-after-university\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">What to do after university in the UK<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> for more top tips.<\/span><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>ChatGPT\u2019s massive hype is not over since its debut last year. While some students and workers see it as a godsend, some see it as a threat to their jobs, stirring up debates over a potential robot takeover.\u00a0 We might be a job search engine powered by technology but we don\u2019t have a crystal ball<a class=\"moretag\" href=\"https:\/\/www.adzuna.co.uk\/blog\/everything-you-need-to-know-about-national-apprenticeship-week\/\"> Continued \u00bb<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":58,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[1109,841],"tags":[1112],"class_list":["post-16267","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-finding-a-job","category-graduates","tag-featured"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.adzuna.co.uk\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/16267","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.adzuna.co.uk\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.adzuna.co.uk\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.adzuna.co.uk\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/58"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.adzuna.co.uk\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=16267"}],"version-history":[{"count":4,"href":"https:\/\/www.adzuna.co.uk\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/16267\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":21206,"href":"https:\/\/www.adzuna.co.uk\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/16267\/revisions\/21206"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.adzuna.co.uk\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=16267"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.adzuna.co.uk\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=16267"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.adzuna.co.uk\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=16267"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}