Apprenticeships are the combination of employment and training where you will receive training and mentoring to develop your knowledge expected within your job role well as carrying out a job to help you develop your skills in the workplace. An Apprenticeship can either be at an intermediate level, an advanced level or a higher level.

What does carrying out an apprenticeship mean?

Apprenticeships are structured around the standards that employers expect all apprentices to achieve. These contain the knowledge, skills and behaviours that employer of all sizes have agreed at the standards expected of apprentices working in specific job roles.

Some apprenticeships also include nationally recognised qualifications. To be an apprentice you will be in employment. Your employer will give you work-based experience in the area you have chosen and will support you in developing your skills and behaviours within the workplace. We will support both you and your employer in gaining the knowledge required with a dedicated mentor supporting you regularly at work and for some of our specialist programmes you may be required to attend your local Babington centre, joining with other apprentices studying for the under-pinning knowledge you need to know to work in your chosen area.

Functional Skills

Every Apprenticeship requires you to have or obtain functional and essential skills in order to carry out your role efficiently. These are transferable skills that can be used in any job and industry. Most apprenticeship roles within a company will require the basic functional skills in English and maths. These are all qualifications that can be obtained while completing your apprenticeship.

If similar qualifications have already been achieved then it could mean that you are exempt from sitting these functional skills. These will each be checked at the beginning of your apprenticeship. As part of the apprenticeship, we will also help you explore your strengths in leadership, communication and confidence.

FAQ's

How much will I earn?

The current mimimum wage rate for an apprentice is £3.90 per hour. This rate applies if you are under 19 or are over 19 and in the first year of your apprenticeship. Many employers may however pay more than this. If you are 19 and have compelted the first year of your apprenticeship, you must be paid at least the full national minimum wage.

How long does an apprenticeship last?

The duration of an apprenticeship depends on the individual programme being followed. An apprenticeship must last at least 12 months and will vary depending on your individual needs. Typically our apprenticeships can take between one and two years to complete depening upon the level.

How will the training for my apprenticeship be delivered?

Babington offer a blended approach to learning and training can take place within your workplace but also at a dedicated Babington training centre. During your apprenticeship you will have access to a dedicated mentor that will guide and support you with your apprenticeship. Your employer will support you with day to day tasks and experiences to support your programme and is required to allow you at least 20% of your working time.

Can I stay at the company once I’ve finished my apprenticeship?

Many apprentices are retained by their employers once they have finished their apprenticeship. If you have achieved your apprenticeship and have been a valuable employee during your time on programme then your employer is likely to consider you for a full time role with the company, alternatively some employers may want you to continue with your learning and development by enrolling on to a higher apprenticeship.

How old do I have to be to enrol on an apprenticeship?

So long has you have completed your full time education at secondary school an apprenticeship is open to anyone. There are no upper age limits to apprenticeships.

At Babington, we have been helping young people start their careers since 1974, making us one of the longest running apprenticeship providers in the UK.