Completing an Apprenticeship

What you will have

What you learn in your Apprenticeship or Advanced Apprenticeship will vary but you'll always end up gaining the following:

  • Practical experience, skills and knowledge from working in your chosen type of employment
  • A National Vocational Qualification (NVQ), at Level 2 for an Apprenticeship, or Level 3 for an Advanced Apprenticeship
  • Key Skills qualifications, e.g. working in teams, problem-solving, communication and using new technology
  • A technical certificate such as a BTEC National Diploma or a City & Guilds Progression Award (included in most Apprenticeships)
  • Any extra qualifications or requirements that are important for your chosen occupation.
Back to top


How do NVQs compare to other qualifications?

There are five levels of NVQ:

  • Level 1 = equivalent to five GCSEs at grades D-G
  • Level 2 = equivalent to five GCSEs at grades A-C
  • Level 3 = equivalent to two A levels/one vocational A level
  • Level 4/5 = equivalent to HNC, HND and degree level
Back to top


What can you do afterwards?

When you complete an Apprenticeship, you’ll be able to show an employer that you have the skills and qualifications relevant to your chosen field giving you the opportunity to progress to a more senior role.

Many advanced apprentices are now using their Apprenticeship as a stepping stone to higher education or University, many on a part time basis with their employer’s financial support.

Back to top


Gareth Moor - Electrical Engineering

‘One of the main benefits of doing an Apprenticeship has been the ongoing training I have received at college and at work. Being continually exposed to different teams and varying projects at work has taught me much more than I would have learnt if I didn’t have on the job training. My Apprenticeship has enabled me to develop good communication skills, and improve working relationships with colleagues at all levels of the company.’

Lucy Rouillon - Business Administration

‘I love my job because I make a difference to people through the work I am doing. In the space of two years, I have completed my Advanced Apprenticeship and been promoted twice. I now have the ambition I once lacked, and the motivation to go further. I hope to study for a degree in business administration, and gain a management role in the future.’

Michelle Grandon - Telecomms

‘The diverse training that I have received during my Apprenticeship has enabled me to become a multi-skilled engineer. I am also a qualified NVQ assessor, personally responsible for five candidates. I love this part of the role as I can relate to them, and like to think I provide them with valuable support and advice.’

Christopher Gary Taylor - Construction

‘My Apprenticeship has helped me become more confident and knowledgeable within my field. It has been such an achievement for me to reach a stage where I can supervise staff, meet deadlines, produce work of a high standard, and train and develop other apprentices.'

Back to top


Get in touch

Now that you’re a little more clued up about Apprenticeships, why not get in touch? You can call us on 08000 150 600 or send us your details in our ‘What next?’ section.

Back to top

A smiling girl who could study an Apprenticeship in construction

List of Apprenticeships

Like the idea of an Apprenticeship but got no idea which area you'd like to work in? Let us inspire you.