Kick-start your career with skills for life

National Apprenticeship Week has arrived, and we are here to answer all your questions about apprenticeships and how to become an apprentice!

What is an apprenticeship?

Apprenticeships provide you with a direct route to the career you want. Become an apprentice, and you’ll be able to learn through hands-on experience, working within a business in the area of your choice.

You’ll not only get paid a wage – including holiday pay – but you’ll also gain a recognised qualification while you work.

How do apprenticeships work?

You’ll be expected to work for a minimum of 30 hours a week, including college-based study. The training you receive at college will build on the industry-specific knowledge you gain while at work, as well as teaching you broader skills that will be useful in a range of job roles.

How much does it cost?

There are no tuition fees, as apprenticeships are funded by the Government and your employment. One of the many reasons that people choose apprenticeships over routes like university degrees is that you have no fees or student loans, and you can start earning from day one.

What will I be paid?

The current minimum wage for an apprentice is £6.40 per hour. If you are in your second year of an apprenticeship and are aged 19 or over, you will be paid the National Minimum Wage.

The exciting news is that employers often pay their apprentices more than the minimum wage, as they really appreciate the value that they can bring to a business!

How old do I have to be to become an apprentice?

You need to be at least 16 to become an apprentice, but there is no upper age limit. Some people start apprenticeships straight after leaving school, while others take on apprenticeships to help them enhance or change their careers.

There are a range of different apprenticeships to suit everyone, from Level 2 and Level 3 apprenticeships, which are suitable for people who have either limited or no previous experience, to degree apprenticeships for people with extensive experience.

Why should I become an apprentice?

• Earn a real wage while you learn
• Gain qualifications without having to pay tuition fees
• Kick-start your career with hands-on experience in the career of your choice
• Acquire kills and knowledge that boost your CV, giving you the edge over other people
• Opportunities to network with relevant employers
• The possibility of a permanent job at the end of your apprenticeship

What kind of apprenticeships can I do?

We offer apprenticeships in a huge range of subjects across our colleges in Cornwall and Devon, including agriculture, tree surgery, electrical, engineering, equine, digital, catering, hairdressing and social care.

Take a look at our full range of apprenticeships, and see what is on offer near you.

What makes a good apprentice?

• Passion: Apprenticeships work best when people are passionate about the career they’ve chosen and the work they are doing
• Enthusiasm: An apprenticeship is an amazing opportunity to learn from people who know their job inside out; make sure to ask questions and listen to the people around you
• Professionalism: Show your employer that they can rely on you by punctual, dependable and organised

How do I apply to become an apprentice?

Take a look at our range of current vacancies to find one that suits you, or contact our team on either 0330 123 4785 or apprenticships@cornwall.ac.uk for support in finding the right apprenticeship.