Getting ready for an apprenticeship

Are you interested in earning a wage whilst learning in the workplace? We have put together some tips to get you started and give you the best possible chance of securing your ideal apprenticeship.

• How to find an apprenticeship employer

  How to find an apprenticeship employer

  To get started in an apprenticeship, you need to find an employer!
  Where to begin…

  • You can view our list of vacancies or get in touch with our brilliant Apprenticeship Team for support and 1-1 advice This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
  • Search for vacancies advertised by employers using the Find an apprenticeship government listing website – you can filter by keywords, location and apprenticeship skill level.
  • Do some research and/or ask family or friends if they know anyone in a relevant sector who might be interested in taking on an apprentice – pick up the phone and be proactive and available

  Can’t find a vacancy or employer?

  If September comes and you have had no luck finding an employer, don’t worry!
  You will automatically receive a place on the full-time vocational course and can transfer to the apprenticeship route if you find an employer once you’ve started.

• Top tips to writing a standout CV

  Top tips to writing a standout CV

  Our useful tips will help you to get started to create a CV that secures you that first interview!

  1. Tailor it – make sure you only include information that is relevant to the job you are applying for
  2. Update it – remember to add new skills, qualifications and experience to your CV so it best represents your ability. Don’t forget to update your contact details if they change – and use a sensible email address!
  3. Be honest with it – it isn’t worth the risk of lying!
  4. Keep it short – use positive language, ensure it is clear to read and don’t go over two sides of A4.
     Make sure you include the information below, and don’t be afraid of using bullet points!

  • Name
  • Contact details
  • A personal profile – including your hobbies and interests
  • Secondary education and qualifications/predicted grades
  • Overview of work experience – starting with most recent
  • References on request

  Think you’ve got no experience or skills?

  Everyone must start somewhere – big up transferable skills, such as time management, good communication and being able to work as part of a team.
  Being part of a sports team shows you are a team player and babysitting demonstrates you are responsible and reliable! Check out our skills checklist below

  Do you
  …usually arrive at school and your lessons on time? Punctual and reliable
  …always hand your homework in on time? Well organized and have good time management
  …pick things up quickly? A quick learner and a good listener
  …make contributions to a conversation in class or with friends? A confident speaker and have good communication skills

  You are
  Punctual and reliable
  Well organized and have good time management
  A quick learner and a good listener
  A confident speaker and have good communication skills

  If you really feel you are lacking, do something to show you are gaining experience, e.g. volunteering for a local charity or business.

• Meet the apprenticeship team at college

  Meet the apprenticeship team at college

  Well done – you have reached the next stage in your apprenticeship application!
  We will be providing the training for the apprenticeship vacancy you have applied for so, first things first, we’d love to meet you and talk you through the programme and the expectations of the employer.
  This is simply to make sure the apprenticeship is a good match for your interests and hopes for the future. You will also be able to ask any questions and get to know the tutor.
  It isn’t a formal meeting so please come in something you feel comfortable in, and feel free to bring someone with you. If you can’t attend, please let us know (mailto: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.)
  What’s next?
  We will let the employer know if we think you are ready for the apprenticeship, and if you are shortlisted you will be invited to attend an interview with the employer.