Apprenticeships

Did you know North Kent College is one of the country’s leading apprenticeship providers

No matter what stage you are within your career, whether just starting out in the world of work or already an established member of staff, Apprenticeships can support you to develop your skills, knowledge and behaviours in your chosen profession via an apprenticeship scheme, and is perfect solution to earn while you learn

Career Search

What is an apprenticeship?

An apprenticeship is a real job that gives you a learning platform to train and develop your skills, knowledge and behaviours in your chosen profession. 

20% of your contracted working hours will be spent in training and development, either with us at college, or even in your workplace. The remainder of your time will be spent applying and developing your skills and knowledge deeper in your workplace.

Apprenticeships at North Kent College

Discover what you can study as an apprentice at North Kent College

Apprenticeship FAQs

  • Do Apprentices get paid?

    As an apprentice, you’ll usually be employed to work a minimum of 30 hours per week and be paid a wage no less than the National Minimum Apprenticeship Rate - £5.28 per hour, for the time you are in work and in off-the-job training. 

    You can also undertake an apprenticeship if you are a part time employee, in these circumstances we will review your parttime working hours and extend the duration of your apprenticeship to ensure you receive the required level of training needed.

    The amount you are paid is based on several factors including your previous experience and current skill set. Within some job roles your wage may increase as you progress and take on more responsibility. You will also receive the same benefits as any employee, including a holiday pay

  • Who can do an apprenticeship?

    Apprenticeships are open to anyone who is 16 years old and over, has a right to work in England and is not in full time education. There is no upper age limit and available to anyone whether starting out on their career or for those who have been working for some time.

  • Levels of Apprenticeships

    Apprenticeships can now support your learning ambitions to the highest level however It is important to know that Apprenticeship levels are based on the job role and duties and responsibilities that sit within the Job Role (even though you may have higher-level qualifications and or other subjects you could still undertake an apprenticeship at a lower level). 

    Apprenticeship levels are set and equivalent to: 

    • Level 2 (Intermediate): GCSEs 
    • 3 (Advanced): A-levels 
    • 4 (Higher): Foundation degree 
    • 5 (Higher): Foundation degree/first year of Bachelor’s degree 
    • 6 (Degree): Bachelor’s degree 
    • 7 (Degree): Master’s degree 

  • What do I need to know about Maths and English?

    English and Maths are a fundamental part to successfully achieve your Apprenticeship, they are essential to support your longer-term career prospects and progression. As an apprentice you will be required to achieve a Maths and English qualification (if you don’t already have one) as part of your apprenticeship. Each apprenticeship program we offer has specific Levels of Maths and English that are required on entry to starting your apprenticeship.

  • What is the End Point Assessment?

    Once your apprenticeship’s practical training period is completed, you will be entered through the Apprenticeship Gateway. Once you have been accepted and approved through the Gateway, The End Point Assessment Organisation (EPAO) will appoint an independent assessor, who will undertake a series of competency tests on you, this could include, an exam, a practical observation of skills learnt, professional discussion, Review of your portfolio of evidence and or project

    The End Point Assessment is your opportunity to demonstrate that you are genuinely competent in your occupation by allowing you to showcase what you have learnt throughout your apprenticeship. Each apprenticeship programme has a slightly different assessment approach however what they all have in common is that they’ll assess the knowledge, skills and behaviours you have developed during your apprenticeship

  • How can I find and apply for an Apprenticeship?

    • There are several different ways you can find an apprenticeship. Finding one can be the same as a finding a normal job, so it is important to make sure that you give yourself the best opportunity to be successful in your search.
    • We work with many employers that recruit apprentices all throughout the year so why not visit and browse our current opportunities on our Apprenticeship Vacancy Page to view the current live vacancies
    • Register yourself on the Government Website Find an Apprenticeship, GOV - Find an apprenticeship - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk) The Government website allows you to search and apply for live vacancies available in different industries, locations or levels.
    • Visiting Company Based Websites as you may already have a particular company in mind, it’s worth looking at their website or social media feeds to find out if they are advertising any Apprenticeship Vacancies,
    • Contacting employers directly and asking if they have considered supporting an Apprenticeship

     

    Contact our helpful and friendly Apprenticeship Team for any Advice and Guidance:

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