Apprenticeships

An apprenticeship is an opportunity to work and study at the same time – time is spent doing on-the-job training and the rest is spent working towards a qualification.

Apprenticeships have often been thought of for those first starting out in their careers, but they now offer far more opportunities. Apprenticeships aren’t just for school leavers, while this remains a great choice when starting out, an apprenticeship also supports growth within an existing role or career change.

The qualification an apprentice can achieve could vary from the equivalent of GCSEs, to a master’s degree depending on the level of apprenticeship taken. There are different types and levels of apprenticeships, each level apprenticeship will have different entry requirements and may last from 8 months to three or five years for degree level.

Anyone studying an apprenticeship must:

• Be employed in a job that lasts for the duration of the apprenticeship.
• Live in England or spend at least 50% of working hours in England.
• Work towards an approved apprenticeship standard that supports the development of substantial new skills.
• Undergo training that lasts at least 12 months
• Spend a minimum of 20% of weekly working hours on off-the-job training.
• Be paid the relevant national minimum wage, or the appropriate wage reflective of the position occupied while studying for an apprenticeship

Herefordshire Council is committed to supporting our colleagues to thrive. We provide and support a range of training and development opportunities, including apprenticeships.

When we have apprenticeships available, we advertise them on our job vacancies website.

Apprenticeships offer a variety of opportunities, whether that is growing in your current role or specialism or wanting to pursue a different career. Hear about the benefits of an apprenticeship from some of our apprentices who have shared their experiences.