What is an Apprenticeship?
An Apprenticeship is an employer responsive programme. The programme is full/part funded by the government to build the skills of new employees, and existing employees where training is required to develop them into a new or existing role.
New or existing employees can undertake an apprenticeship programme, as long as the employer is in agreement that the employee can have, time to train, and supports the programme. Employees must hold and employment contract in a relevant job role to the qualification. Eligibility criteria checks to apply to both employer and employees, including initial assessments to determine suitability for a course.
Typical Apprenticeship Framework Outline
An apprenticeship is an occupation related framework. The framework is comprised of a collection of qualifications that the apprentice undertakes in-line with his/her duties.
Apprenticeship frameworks and typical durations:
- Level 2 Intermediate Apprenticeships – 12 Months
- Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeships – 12-18 Months
- Level 4/5 Higher Apprenticeships – 18-24 Months
The programme outline below illustrates a typical learner journey, although this may vary from sector to sector and is dependent on learner and employer time constraints:
Competence Qualification |
A classroom based qualification with learning focused around building and accrediting work-related skills
Activities – classroom learning/work-based assessment Duration – 9-18 months |
Knowledge Qualification |
A classroom based qualification with a key focus around important theoretical and underpinning skills for the sector
Activities – classroom learning/assessments Duration – 5-12 months |
Functional Skills Qualifications |
A suite of classroom based qualifications addressing underlying English, Maths and ICT needs for the role
Activities – Classroom learning in Maths, English, ICT Duration – 4-5 months |
Employee Rights and Responsibilities (ERR) |
A module on employees rights, responsibilities and professionalism in the workplace
Activities – Workbook for most sectors Duration – 1 month |
Improving Personal, Learning and Thinking Skills (PLTS) |
A framework of qualities and skills required for success in the workplace – this is embedded into the qualification |
You must:
- Meet residency criteria check including 3 years UK/EU resident with right to remain.
- Employed with a contact of employment on the start date of apprenticeship for a minimum of 30 hours per week in a framework related role.
- Have employer consent for pursuing an Apprenticeship at the appropriate level in the relevant sector.
- Have not obtained a recognised full Level 4 or higher qualification.
- Not be studying towards a degree qualification, or hold a degree qualification
Your Commitments:
- Attend scheduled classroom training, assessments and employment.
- Work in partnership with your employer/mentor to complete the framework of qualifications.
- Monthly review meetings (Face-Face / Remote) with the personal tutor.
**All enrolments and access to funding are subject to eligibility and suitability checks which are carried out on premise during the enrolment process.
Have any questions?
How do I start?
If you are currently employed, your employer can put you forward for the Apprenticeship Programme if you are working within a relevant sector.
If you are currently not employed, you can use the Apprenticeships Vacancies Online system by NAS (National Apprenticeship Service) in order to apply to positions available through 5E Ltd with existing employers.
If you are ineligible or unsuccessful for the Apprenticeship, we can still refer you to other possible funded training opportunities which may be available through 5E Ltd depending on your individual eligibility and circumstances.
How many hours will I work?
You are required to work a minimum of 30 hours per week, but some employers may take on apprentices for longer. In most cases you will be working with the employer for 4 days a week with 1 day a week allocated for your training at Selby Centre (our main centre based in Tottenham, London). Depending on the pathway, you may undertake a further day of training per week and/or may study at one of our alternate centres in Tottenham, Edmonton, Wood Green, Ilford, Stratford or Colindale.
Do I get holidays?
Yes, apprentices are entitled to regular paid holiday pay each year in the same way as regular employees.
Can I change employer during the programme?
You may change your employer during the course of your training and continue your Apprenticeship from the same point with your new employer.
Am I eligible?
Before your Apprenticeship begins, you must:
- Not hold a Level 4 qualification or higher
- Not be studying towards a degree qualification, or hold a degree qualification
- Hold a valid contract of employment with an employer
- Have employer consent for pursuing an Apprenticeship at the appropriate level in the relevant sector
- Resident in the country for a minimum of 3 years
*other specific eligibility criteria may apply (can be discussed during application procedure)
How much do I get paid?
The national minimum wage of £3.70 applies to Apprentices who are aged between 16-18 and those aged 19+ who are in their first year of study. A majority of employers are likely to pay higher than this and/or provide performance related pay increases. We encourage employers to improve the pay rate for Apprentices as their training and knowledge increases during the course of the programme.
Can I choose my own place of work?
Yes, you may apply to any Apprenticeships position via the NAS (National Apprenticeship Service) Apprenticeships Vacancies Online system. 5E Ltd are keen on helping potential apprentices locate suitable vacancies by informing them via email of any vacancies available. Such vacancies will also be posted online via the Apprenticeships Vacancies Online system.
I have other questions! How can I speak to someone?
We are happy to answer all queries via phone. Please call us on 0208 352 6060 for more information, or email us on getindigital@fivee.co.uk