Get into an apprenticeship

Sunderland College is offering exciting apprenticeships with employers across a range of industries from professional cookery to business and engineering to education. 

Apprenticeships are a great way for people of all ages to earn while they learn, either entering a new industry or upskilling in their chosen area to progress. They offer the chance to learn and train for a specific job, earn a wage, gain a qualification, and get hands on experience. 

You will be treated just like all the other employees, with a contract of employment and holiday leave. 

Who can do an apprenticeship? 

Apprenticeships are for anyone above the age of 16 who isn’t in full time education. Although most apprentices are 16–24 there isn’t an age limit, with some at Sunderland College in their 50s and 60s. 

Apprenticeships can be a great way to change career or get back into work after a break. 

Why should I do an apprenticeship? 

Apprenticeships are the perfect way to get experience in the area you want to work in. You will learn about the job as you go, develop your skills, and have something to add to your CV at the end. It will also help you work out if the job and industry is right for you. 

Will I get paid? 

Yes, whilst it’s true that the salary for some apprenticeships reflect the fact that employers are investing in your training, many employers pay a lot more and offer their apprentices a competitive salary. 

How long does an apprenticeship last? 

Apprentices tend to last up to 18 months but some, such as engineering and electrical, can last for three years. Many apprenticeships lead into a permanent position with employers – over 96% of our apprentices remain in employment on completion. Even if the employer is unable to offer you a full-time position, you will be in a much better position to find your dream job due to your experience and qualification. 

What qualifications do I need? 

Apprenticeships aren’t based just on academic achievement so requirements will vary. Some might not ask for any qualifications at all. 

What qualifications can I get? 

Apprenticeships are structured in various ways but the three main types of qualification you can get are: 

• National Vocational Qualification (NVQ) or Qualifications and Credit Framework (QCF): This competency-based qualification shows you have the skills and knowledge to do the job 
• Technical qualification: These give you the specific knowledge you need to do a technical job 

• Functional skills qualification: These build up your literacy, numeracy and ICT skills  

Within this there are three different levels of apprenticeship: 

• Intermediate level apprenticeships (Level 2): Equivalent to 5 GCSE passes 
• Advanced level apprenticeships (Level 3): Equivalent to 2 A level passes 
• Higher level apprenticeships (Level 4): Can lead to NVQ Level 4 and above, or a foundation degree 

Will I need to attend college? 

Apprentices learn and work at the same time but depending on the apprenticeship you may spend some of your time at college and the rest at work, but some apprenticeships require no college attendance at all. 

Hear from an apprentice: 

Amy is a business administration apprentice at housing group Gentoo Group in Sunderland. 

“I work with the communications, learning and development and HR teams at Gentoo and no two days are the same. One day I could be in a meeting and updating training records and the next I could be on site working with videographers on a corporate video. 

“Working across departments has given me a great sense of responsibility and value. I have learned a broad and varied range of skills and life experience, and an apprenticeship gives you so much more than a qualification. 

“Apprenticeships offer a way to get invaluable hand on experience day to day and allow you to grow as a person and professionally. I have won two awards, and I am saving for a car after funding my driving lessons as one of the main benefits is earning whilst learning. 

“If you’re considering doing an apprenticeship I would say go for it.” 

How do I apply? 

You can view our apprenticeship vacancies at  > Apprenticeship Vacancies

Our expert and experienced staff are here to help and will help you through every step of the application process. If you would like to find out more, callv0300 770 8000vor email info@sunderlandcollege.ac.uk.