Milton Keynes College
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Guide to
Apprenticeships
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Whether you are looking for your first role, an alternative to A-Levels or
university or the next step in your career, an apprenticeship could be the
perfect route for you.
What are
Apprenticeships?
What is in it for me?
Apprenticeships are specialist work based training
programmes, which allow you to develop your
career and learn specialist skills relevant to the
sector in which you are working.
As an apprentice, you will earn a wage whilst
studying a recognised qualification relevant to
the field you are working in and gaining valuable
work experience to help progress your career.
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A salary
Training in the skills employers want
Excellent progression opportunities
Increased future earning potential
Paid holiday
Supported learning at a pace suited to the
individual
We offer Apprenticeships
in the Following Sectors:
• Business Services
• Sports & Leisure
• Hair & Beauty
• Catering &
Hospitality
• Financial Services
• Education &
Childcare
mkcollege.ac.uk/apprenticeships
• IT Services
• Engineering
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Apprenticeship Levels Explained
Apprenticeships are available in
a wide range of subjects and are
available at Level 2 to Level 7.
Apprenticeships take between one
and five years depending on the
qualification you study.
Becoming an
Apprentice
Applying for Apprenticeship
Vacancies
Apprenticeship vacancies are advertised
throughout the year with varied start dates.
Check out and apply for our live vacancies at
www.mkcollege.ac.uk/apprenticeship-vacancies
Intermediate Level
Apprenticeship - Level 2
You can also apply directly via the
Government apprenticeship website at
www.gov.uk/apply-apprenticeship
Equivalent to five GCSEs at grades 9-4 (A*-C)
Assessment Stage
Advanced Apprenticeships - Level 3
Equivalent to two A-Levels
Higher & Degree Apprenticeships
- Level 4, 5, 6, & 7
Equivalent to HND, Foundation Degree and Degree Level
The level you start an apprenticeship depends
on the job role and your qualifications prior to
commencing the programme.
You will need to complete a maths and English
assessment and in some cases, an occupational
trades or skills test to assess your suitability
for the apprenticeship programme. You will
also be invited to attend an interview with an
apprenticeship recruitment advisor to discuss
future career aspirations and to offer support
and guidance to identify suitable vacancies or
pathways.
Interview Time
On completion of the assessment and College
interview, you will be recommended to employers
in line with suitable vacancies. From here, you will
be invited to attend an employer interview.
You will be given all the support you need to gain
an apprenticeship such as confidence building,
interview practice and CV preparation from our
Apprenticeship Recruitment Team.
[email protected]
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much do apprentices earn?
There is a minimum wage that all apprentices
must be paid. However, most Milton Keynes
College apprentices are paid more than this.
You can find the current apprentice minimum
wage at www.gov.uk/apprenticeships-guide/payand-conditions. Rates of pay can vary between
apprenticeship vacancies.
Can I do an apprenticeship if I
already have a job?
Yes, you can become an apprentice where you
work now if you are in a job role where you
would be able to work towards an apprenticeship
and your employer is willing to support you.
Contact the Apprenticeship Recruitment Team for
further details.
Are apprenticeships just for people
who didn’t get good A-Level grades?
No. This is a common misconception surrounding
apprenticeships. Apprenticeships opportunities
can be very competitive so employers will
be looking to employ the best candidates.
In addition, individuals choosing to study an
apprenticeship are expected to manage both
working and studying a qualification so need to
be ambitious and have the desire to develop the
skills to succeed.
Does it cost anything to do an
apprenticeship?
No. As an apprentice, the Government or
your employer will be subsiding the cost of
the apprenticeship. This includes degree level
apprenticeships where the apprentice is not liable
to pay any tuition fees.
Our dedicated Apprenticeship Recruitment Team are on hand to
help with any queries you may have. With a wealth of experience,
the team can provide you with all the information and advice you
need to find the perfect apprenticeship and guide you through
the application and interview process. You can contact the
Apprenticeship Recruitment Team on 01908 637056 or email
[email protected].
Discover more
mkcollege.ac.uk/apprenticeships