Parent Q&A on apprenticeships
What is an apprenticeship?
An apprenticeship is a set of qualifications called a framework. Most apprenticeships include the following:
- A National Vocational Qualification (NVQ)
- A Technical Certificate
- Key Transferable Skills
- Functional Skills
The employer then provides the practical on the job training, whilst Bournville College provide the knowledge and assistance.
Can a University graduate complete an apprenticeship?
Yes – a graduate can do an Apprenticeship, however funding will not be available. The employer would then have to pay all the training costs during the apprenticeship.
Will an apprenticeship benefit my child in the future?
Research conducted by the National Apprenticeship Service revealed:
- Those with an Intermediate Level Apprenticeship earn on average around £64,000 more over their lifetime than those with a Level 2 qualification or below
- Those with an Advanced Level Apprenticeship earn on average £100,000 more over their lifetime than those with a qualification at Level 2 or below
- 82% of consumers favour using a company which takes on apprentices
- 72% of businesses who currently employ apprentices say they have made a positive contribution during the recession.
- You must be living in England
- You must not be in full – time education
- You must be aged 16 or over
What are the entry requirements for an apprenticeship?
Each apprenticeship will have different entry requirements. However generic requirements include:
- GCSE English
- GCSE Maths
- ICT
If my child is already in employment, can they start an apprenticeship?
If their current employer agrees, they can become an apprentice.
Will my child still have holiday entitlement?
Like many other employees apprentices are given at least 20 days paid holiday per year as well as bank holidays.
Will my child have to pay tax and National Insurance?
Yes, all apprentices still have to pay both tax and national insurance on their earned income like all employers over the age of 16. However, if the apprentice is on the minimum apprentice wage of £2.60 they will be below the threshold for tax and national insurance. For further information please visit www.direct.gov.uk.
How would I look for apprenticeship opportunities to help my child?
The intended apprentice would need to set up an account at www.apprenticeships.org.uk, the account is free and is run by the National Apprenticeship Service. They would then be able to log in, find out information on all current apprenticeship vacancies, search, apply and set up notifications for apprenticeships that they are interested in.
