Apprenticeship Information
Find out everything there is to know about Apprenticeships!
What is an Apprenticeship?
All Apprenticeships are real jobs so all apprentices earn a salary. You must be paid at least the national minimum Apprenticeship wage – and many employers pay significantly more.
Who can apply?
If you live in England and are over 16 you can apply for an Apprenticeship.
What levels are available?
There are various levels of Apprenticeship you can undertake depending on your current skills and qualifications:
- Level 2 Intermediate (equivalent to 5 GCSEs)
- Level 3 Advanced (equivalent to 2 A-Levels)
- Level 4, 5, 6 and 7 Higher (equivalent to a Foundation degree or above)
How much will I get paid?
The hourly rate for the minimum wage depends on your age and whether you’re an apprentice. The starting salary for apprentices is currently £3.70* per hour. More information can be found on the government website.
How many holidays will I get?
Most workers who work a 5-day week must receive at least 28 days’ paid annual leave per year. This is the equivalent of 5.6 weeks of holiday. Read more about Apprentice Holiday Entitlement Rights.
How do I apply?
Applying is very simple. Here are the three main steps:
- Apply online for an Apprenticeship.
- Choose the Apprenticeship you want to do.
- We'll invite you into Blackburn College for an initial assessment.
After completing the three steps above, you'll be ready to start your Apprenticeship. Start dates are subject to passing the assessment and a successful interview for an existing job vacancy or on a vacancy you have secured yourself.
Where can I get more information?
View our courses
View our courses We offer many different types of Apprenticeships for you to choose from.
Make an application
Make an application Making an application is easy. Simply find the course you want to study, make sure you meet the entry criteria and then apply. You can apply online, by post or by email.
Find an apprenticeship vacancy
Find an apprenticeship vacancy Before you can start an Apprenticeship - you need to find an appropriate job with an employer. Browse our latest vacancies for up-to-date job openings and opportunities.
Life as an apprentice
Life as an apprentice As an apprentice you're employed and working in industry, earning a wage while putting into practice the skills you're learning at college. You're also studying for a recognised qualification.
Frequently asked questions
Frequently asked questions Have a read of our Apprenticeships FAQ for the full low-down on what life is really like as an Apprentice.
Traineeships
Traineeships Traineeships provide the essential work preparation training, English, maths and work experience needed to secure an Apprenticeship or employment.
Higher level Apprenticeships
Higher level Apprenticeships Higher Level Apprenticeships offer an excellent alternative to the traditional route to gaining higher level qualifications, by offering you practical industry skilled training combined with study.
Employer information
Employer information We pride ourselves on our excellent Apprenticeship success rates and the work we do with employers and learners in industry.