Apprenticeship Levels
Apprenticeship schemes are offered at different levels. Each level has a different entry requirement, length of course and qualifications. Lets look at these levels in turn.
Traineeship
If you are not quite ready for an Apprenticeship, a Traineeship might be right for you. A Traineeship is designed for young people who want to get a job and the skills and experience they need to boost their career prospects. A Traineeship will provide the essential work experience, work preparation training, and English and Maths support (if needed) to secure an Apprenticeship or other employment.
level 2 intermediate
This level may be suitable if you didn’t get the GCSE grades you were expecting. You will be able to start gaining valuable work experience whilst studying more GCSE equivalent exams. The scheme length should be around 12 – 18 months long. You must be 16 years old or more and demonstrate you have the ability to complete the programme.
level 3 advanced
To start this programme you usually need 5 GCSEs at grades 9-4 (some schemes might set lower requirements) or have already completed a level 2 Intermediate scheme. You will gain valuable work experience and study for A level equivalent exams. The scheme length should be around 18 to 48 months long.
level 4 – 5 higher 6-7 DEGREE
To start these programmes you will need either A levels or equivalent such as BTEC Advanced or have already completed a level 3 Advanced scheme. Whilst on the Higher schemes you will study towards an equivalent to a higher education certificate, higher education diploma or a foundation degree (the first year of a degree). Level 6 will give you the equivalent to a Bachelors Degree, Level 7 the equivalent to a Master’s Degree.
Please be aware that each company offering these schemes will set their own clear entry requirements, course length and resulting qualifications. You will only know this information when you read the scheme advert. We look in more detail about searching, selecting and applying for schemes further on in this course.
