FAQs for Apprentices

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If you're having trouble finding the answers you're looking for then browse through our frequently asked questions for more information and help on apprenticeships.

General Questions

An Apprenticeship is a job that is combined with training. An Apprentice is employed and learns job-related skills or a specific trade from a skilled employer over a fixed period of time (the minimum being 12 months). An Apprentice is entitled to a national minimum wage but often earns a wage in excess of this. They are also entitled to holiday pay. Apprentices would normally work for five weeks at their employer and do classroom-based training every sixth week, normally at a training provider centre, although individual setups may vary depending on the employer and/or the training provider. All Apprenticeships combine work with training and learning, and you will gain nationally recognised competency and knowledge-based qualifications. For more information, please look around the website and get in touch with a member of the AutoRaise team.

Apprenticeships give aspiring professionals the real world experience they need to get the edge in the job market, and will show employers that you can hit the ground running! An Apprenticeship is an excellent way of gaining essential experience. Below are more reasons why an Apprenticeship may be the best post-16 choice for you.

The average length of time to complete an apprenticeship is 2-4 years, although this can vary depending on your choice of trade and the range of skills you can learn with your current employer.

The qualification requirements will differ depending on employer – some may require higher grades at GCSE level than others. We recommend you apply and register with us irrelevant of what grades you gained at GCSE level. We will then be able to contact you and advise you of the employer’s requirements and when other vacancies become available in your area.

This will depend on the arrangements your employer has with your training provider, though there will be classroom based learning. Options include workplace based training, weekly college visits or in some cases, block release learning where you will be studying at a residential college.

From 1st April 2020 an apprentice will earn a minimum of £4.15 per hour. This is a minimum salary and some employers may choose to pay more. Once you are qualified you can expect to earn around £16,000 – £20,000 per year. As you gain further experience and training you can expect this salary to rise. There will also be opportunities for shift and overtime pay dependent on your employer. You may also be eligible for holiday entitlement and other benefits such as company pensions and healthcare schemes. The figures shown are a guide only and can vary with each employer. They may also vary depending on geographical location.

Yes. All Apprenticeships combine work with training and learning, and you will gain nationally recognised competency and knowledge-based qualifications. An Apprentice is employed and learns job-related skills or a specific trade from a skilled employer over a fixed period of time (the minimum being 12 months). Apprentices would normally work for five weeks at their employer and do classroom-based training every sixth week, normally at a training provider centre, although individual setups may vary depending on the employer and/or the training provider.

This will depend on what disciplines your employer wants you to learn. You can indicate your preference but your employer will guide you on this. The Accident Repair Technician (multi-skilled) apprenticeship involves you learning all aspects of vehicle repair, e.g. paint, panel and mechanical/electrical/trim. At the end of this particular Apprenticeship, you and your employer will decide which specialism you will follow for further learning. There are also single-discipline Apprenticeships in each of the three main disciplines and others too.

By successfully completing an apprenticeship not only will you have gained the experience necessary to perform in the job role but you will gain a nationally recognised qualification. At the end of an apprenticeship journey skills knowledge and behaviour will be assessed, by an approved end point assessment organisation. The outcome of this assessment will be graded aligned with the apprenticeship standard and associated assessment plan against which your apprenticeship has been registered.

No. It is up to the employer to offer you a permanent role and this is dependent upon the requirements of the business and your performance throughout your Apprenticeship. Commitment, attitude and enthusiasm will improve your chances and those who are not offered jobs will have a CV, qualification and experience that will make them very attractive to other companies.

If you don’t pass an assessment, your training provider and employer will support you to improve in that area and arrange for you to retake the exam. Apprenticeships are designed to ensure you succeed.
Yes, you can switch employers, but this must be done carefully in collaboration with your training provider to ensure the continuity of your apprenticeship program.
Yes, training providers often offer block-release learning with accommodation, so apprentices who live farther away can still access the training.

Application & Eligibility

After submitting your CV, AutoRaise will connect you with employers in your area. If an employer expresses interest, you’ll proceed to interviews and further discussions about placement.
Yes! Apprenticeships are designed to train you from scratch, so no prior experience is required. Enthusiasm and a willingness to learn are the most important factors.
Absolutely. While many apprenticeships are aimed at school leavers, people of any age can apply, provided they meet the apprenticeship’s requirements.

Training

You’ll receive support from your employer, a dedicated mentor, and your training provider. Many apprenticeships also offer pastoral care and health and wellbeing support.
On-the-job training involves learning practical skills directly from experienced professionals in your workplace. You’ll shadow skilled workers, take part in real projects, and gradually take on more responsibilities.

Career Progression

You can specialise further in your trade, move into management roles, or even start your own business. Some apprentices choose to go into related areas like vehicle diagnostics, insurance assessments, or training roles.
Yes, completing an apprenticeship can lead to further study, including higher apprenticeships or even degree-level programs.

Practical Concerns

You’re entitled to holiday leave, and if you need additional time off due to illness or unforeseen circumstances, this will need to be discussed with your employer and training provider.
Most employers provide the tools and equipment you’ll need. However, some apprentices choose to invest in their own tools as they progress.
Many employers and training providers assist with travel plans or costs, especially for block-release training. Some apprenticeships also include support for transportation logistics.
If you feel another specialisation is better suited to you, speak with your employer and training provider. They’ll assess whether a change is possible without disrupting your progress.
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