We cannot guarantee the accuracy of the following information which is intended for general guidance only. Factors affecting government funding are constantly changing.  Please contact us or the latest Information advice and guidance.

Apprenticeships

Is there an age limit – anyone at any age can take an apprenticeship or advanced apprenticeship. The level of available funding is different for different age groups see about apprenticeships

Do I have to be a British Citizen – not necessarily, however to qualify for funding you need to be an EU citizen, or have lived in the EU for at least 3 years and have the right to work and receive government funding

What about prior qualifications – you can do an apprenticeship irrespective of any previous qualifications. However to qualify for funding your prior qualification must be no higher than level 3

Do I have to have a job – Yes as most of the training takes place ion the workplace. However if you don’t have a job the NLC vacancy service offers job opportunities for apprentices, Apply for a Vacancy

Who employs me – You are employed by the organization where you undertake your apprenticeship, normally under a contract of employment for the period of the apprenticeship programme.

Do I stay with the employer when I finish my apprenticeship. In many cases the employer will offer the apprentice a full time position especially if you have made yourself indispensible, however they are not obliged to do so and the apprenticeship contract is designed to give you training experience and a nationally recognized qualification. In return you have hopefully made a positive contribution as part of the workforce. Equally you have no obligation to continue in the same employment and you may decide to use your training experience and qualification to further your career in another organization. You could also consider progressing to an advanced apprenticeship with the same employer.

Do I get paid – Yes. If you are already employed you will normally continue to receive your usual remuneration. If you are placed with a company as an apprentice you will be paid a minimum apprenticeship wage according to your age. (at age 16-18 this is £2.50 per hour – minimum £95 per week.) Your employer has the discretion to review this as you progress through your programme and become a more effective member of staff.

Are there apprenticeships for all occupations  Most occupations have apprenticeship frameworks and new ones are being made available all the time.

How will it take - This varies greatly between occupations.  A Business Administration apprenticeship can take as little as 6 months, where more technical apprenticeship in the engineering sector can take up to 3 years 

Where does the training take place? – Most NLC apprenticeships are delivered in the workplace and through distance learning and self study

Will I need time off work    In most cases it will not be necessary to take time off work on a regular basis however your employer should allow you at least ½ day each week during normal working hours to work towards your qualifications? You will also spend time in the workplace with your NLC tutor/assessor for training support and assessment. There will also be an element of “ homework” to do outside normal working hours.

How many seate qualifications are their in the apprenticeship framework

Can I progress to further qualifications?  Once you have achieved your apprenticeship framework you can progress to an advanced apprenticeship, take an apprenticeship in another occupation or progress to specialist professional qualification within your chosen occupation sector.

How do I pay any contribution required.  Easy payment plans are available to both candidates and employers for should a contribution be required. Bursaries to cover all or part of this cost are sometimes available
Who accredits the qualifications - NLC apprenticeships are accredited by leading awarding bodies including EDI,  EDEXCEL and AVA

Why should I choose an NLC Apprenticeship programme. We have a  wide choice of programmes, employer vacancies available,  a very high success rate using award winning learning resources, highly qualified tutors providing training guidance and support, and planned progression routes for further development

Can I just do an NVQ instead  - NVQ’s are being replaced by certificates and diplomas on the QCF – see about NVQs for more Information.  However no government funding is currently available for these qualifications

What about other training  - NLC provide a range of training programmes linked to qualifications on the QCG , plus internally accredited workshops and distance learning for management training and ICT training including Microsoft Office and Sage  training for beginners intermediate and advanced levels.

Please contact us if you need any further information