Northumberland College is offering exciting apprenticeships with employers across a range of industries from agriculture to business and engineering to education.
Apprenticeships are a great way for people of all ages to earn while they learn, either entering a new industry or upskilling in their chosen area to progress. They offer the chance to learn and train for a specific job, earn a wage, gain a qualification, and get hands on experience.
You will be treated just like all the other employees, with a contract of employment and holiday leave.
Who can do an apprenticeship?
Apprenticeships are for anyone above the age of 16 who isn’t in full time education. Although most apprentices are 16–24 there isn’t an age limit, with some at Northumberland College in their 50s and 60s.
Apprenticeships can be a great way to change career or get back into work after a break.
Why should I do an apprenticeship?
Apprenticeships are the perfect way to get experience in the area you want to work in. You will learn about the job as you go, develop your skills, and have something to add to your CV at the end. It will also help you work out if the job and industry is right for you.
Will I get paid?
Yes, whilst it’s true that the salary for some apprenticeships reflect the fact that employers are investing in your training a lot of apprenticeships pay good competitive salaries.
How long does an apprenticeship last?
Apprentices tend to last up to 18 months but some, such as engineering and electrical, can last for three years. Many apprenticeships lead into a permanent position with employers – over 96% of our apprentices remain in employment on completion. Even if the employer is unable to offer you a full-time position, you will be in a much better position to find your dream job due to your experience and qualification.
What qualifications do I need?
Apprenticeships aren’t based just on academic achievement so requirements will vary. Some might not ask for any qualifications at all.
What qualifications can I get?
Apprenticeships are structured in various ways but the three main types of qualification you can get are:
Within this there are three different levels of apprenticeship:
Will I need to attend college?
Apprentices learn and work at the same time but depending on the apprenticeship you may spend some of your time at college and the rest at work. Some apprenticeships don’t require any college attendance at all.
Hear from an apprentice:
Sophie is an electro-mechanical apprentice at Tharsus and national winner of the Make UK Rising Star Award:
“I worked in various industries from retail, classic car restoration and property management before deciding I wanted a career in something that really interested me, so I started a level 3 qualification in engineering at college.
“Having worked since leaving school at 18 – over 10 years ago – I knew that experience is worth more to a company than a diploma or degree. With an apprenticeship, I knew I would gain an equivalent qualification as well as two years of real-world experience at the same time.
“While I was at college, I thought I’d like to be a technician on offshore wind turbines. The more I thought about this, the more I realised that the technology wasn’t changing. I wanted to do something cutting edge, so I turned towards robotics, automation and AI.
“When I heard about the Tharsus Engineering Apprenticeship, I applied straight away.
“There isn’t a typical work day. Every day is different. And this is what makes it great. There are always new challenges and solutions to discover. “
How do I apply?
You can view our apprenticeship vacancies here > Apprenticeship Vacancies
Our expert and experienced staff are here to help and will help you through every step of the application process. If you would like to find out more, call 0300 770 6000 or email info@northumberlandcollege.ac.uk.
We are the largest further education provider in Northumberland with campuses throughout the county.
Our student transport scheme is available for eligible students to make getting to and from college as easy as possible.
Our extensive re-development programme will create outstanding new facilities.
Apprenticeships a fantastic way to start a career – they are a great alternative to college, or sixth form and they are highly valued by employers.
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