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Am I eligible to join a Skillnet Apprenticeship programme?

There are no set entry requirements for Apprenticeships, although some of the employers we work with prefer applicants to have 3 GCSE passes at grade “C” or above. 

What happens in the application process?

Our selection process is just like any other job application process. You will be interviewed and asked to take tests to see if you're the right person for the employers we are recruiting for.

Are there different types of Apprenticeship?

Depending on the career route you choose there are different types of Apprenticeship available. Which Apprenticeship is right for you will depend on your experience and the employment opportunities in your area. However, all Apprenticeships include the following basic elements • An appropriate National Vocational Qualification (NVQ) at either Level 2 or Level 3 • Key Skills qualifications, e.g. working in teams, problem-solving, communication and using new technology • A technical certificate such as an IMI or City & Guilds.

How long does an Apprenticeship take?

Technical qualifications in the motor industry usually take about 18 months for Apprenticeships followed by a further 18 months if you go on to become an Advanced Apprentice and most employers prefer Advanced Apprentices when promoting staff. The length of time taken will depend on your ability and your employer's requirements but all Apprenticeships require a large degree of commitment on your part, to see it through.

How do Apprenticeships work?

Your employer pays your wages and gives you on-the-job training which allows you to achieve National Vocational Qualifications (NVQs). You'll also spend time with Skillnet gaining key skills that'll be useful in the job market - like working in teams, problem-solving, communication and using new technology. In addition, you'll study with us for a technical certificate, which will give you further knowledge and understanding of your job. Usually you will attend our Automotive Academy for one day a week or in blocks of two weeks at a time, depending on your employers' preferences.

How much do I get paid?

It's difficult to say and depends on your employer. We will advise them and you on rates for new apprentices but it's often no less than other new entrants to work. We select the employers we work with carefully to make sure that they can provide you with a safe work place and that they will support you in gaining your qualification.

What sort of person is accepted on an Apprenticeship?

Applicants need to be • Serious • Committed • Able to show that you have fully researched the area of work you want to do, and you're the right person for the job • Aware of your responsibilities to both yourself and the company who would employ you • Prepared for further study • Realistic about the amount of work you may have to do • Happy to work as both part of a team and an individual. Able to use your own initiative Apprenticeships can be demanding, but very rewarding. It's not just a question of seeing what is out there and then selecting a career path. It helps if you are focused enough to know what you want to do before you apply.

Do I get holidays?

Like many other employees, you will receive at least 20 days holiday per year (and bank holidays). Your individual entitlement will be detailed in your terms of employment or training agreement. Just like any other job, your employer will have rules about how far in advance holidays need to be booked, and times that holidays cannot be taken.

What qualifications do I get when I've finished my Apprenticeship?

You'll get a package of qualifications when you finish your Apprenticeship - a National Vocational Qualification (NVQ), a technical certificate such as an IMI certificate or a City & Guilds Progression Award, and Key Skills qualifications. Apprenticeships lead to either an NVQ Level 2 or an NVQ Level 3.

How do NVQs relate to other qualifications?

There are five levels of NVQ: • Level 1 = 5 GCSEs at grades D-G • Level 2 = 5 GCSEs at grades A-C • Level 3 = 2 A levels/1 vocational A level • Level 4/5 = HNC, HND and degree level