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Congratulations you’re hired

You did it!

Before you start your apprenticeship, your employer will usually contact you. When they do, you should try to find out:  

  • your working hours  
  • the dress code 
  • what you need to bring - for example, your ID or a notepad and pens 
  • your travel options - for example, where to park or the nearest train station 
  • who to ask for on your first day 
  • If you already work at the same place you're starting your apprenticeship, then ask your employer directly. 

 You will also receive an email invitation to create an account on the My apprenticeship service. On this service, you will be able to: 

  • review and confirm your apprenticeship details 
  • find help and support during your apprenticeship 

You’ll spend at least 20% of your working time doing ‘off-the-job training’ for your apprenticeship. There are lots of different ways you can do this training, for example, at a college, university or online at your place of work. 

Starting your apprenticeship

Now that you've secured your apprenticeship, here's some tips on how to be a brilliant apprentice: 

  • Ask questions so you know you can do your job well. 
  • Know the dress code.  If in doubt, dress smart. 
  • Introduce yourself to everyone you meet to raise your profile. 
  • Learn to use a notepad so you can write down important information. 
  • Enjoy and make a good first impression. 
  • You can read our best practice guide to understand how you will be assessed. Be willing to work as part of the team. 
  • Be enthusiastic and helpful. 
  • Network and get involved in meetings and staff training. 
  • Find a mentor within the company to help you develop. 
  • Know what you want to get out of your apprenticeship and where you want it to take you 

Assessment and certification

During your apprenticeship, you’ll be assessed to make sure you’re achieving the knowledge, skills and behaviours needed for your chosen apprenticeship. 

Apprenticeships also include an end-point assessment. It’s an assessment at the end of your apprenticeship to make sure you’re fully competent in your specific occupation.  

Your end-point assessment, known as an EPA, is carried out by an independent organisation known as an end-point assessment organisation (EPAO). It usually includes a practical demonstration of your skills as well as a discussion with an assessor that demonstrates your learning and your ability to do your chosen occupation. 

Read Amazing Apprenticeships’ best practice guide to understand how you will be assessed [upload PDF to CMS] 

If you pass the assessment, you’ll receive a certificate, meaning you have completed your apprenticeship successfully. Depending on the apprenticeship you are doing, you may also receive a qualification. 

Don’t worry, our Assessors will guide you through your EPA’s and will help you every step of the way! 

97.6% of our apprentices progressed to employment or further study*.

(*Destination data, based on apprentices completing in academic year 2016/17).

Why choose Northumberland College?

96% of our apprentices agree that they have the chance to develop new skills at their workplace*.

(*On-programme Survey 2018, apprentices)

97% of our apprentices agree that their course is helping their skills to get better.*

(*On-programme Survey 2018, apprentices)

96% of our apprentices agree that they are happy with their course.*

(*On-programme Survey 2018, apprentices)

We have over 40 Apprenticeship programmes across a range of career sectors.

Apprenticeship Vacancies Are they right for you?

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