Apprentices

Apprenticeships are high-quality work-based training programmes for people who want to develop their future career prospects and study at the same time. As employees, apprentices earn a wage and work alongside experienced staff to gain job-specific skills.

They not only equip you with the necessary transferrable skills that provide the perfect grounding for any career, but they also allow you to gain valuable qualifications that are recognised by employers. To be considered for one of our Apprenticeship Programmes at Solihull College all we ask for is enthusiasm, commitment and a professional attitude.

There are no set entry requirements to apply for one of our Apprenticeships as they are based on practical skills, work experience and career ambitions, rather than just academic achievements. If you are not currently in full-time education then an Apprenticeship could be ideal for you.

Apprenticeships can be demanding but they are very rewarding. On completing your Apprenticeship the career prospects are endless – you could use your experience as a stepping stone onto an Advanced Apprenticeship Scheme, go on to higher education in a university, or progress up to the next level in your employment.

"The best part of my apprenticeship is the work experience you gain. It's the best way of learning and I'd definitely recommend an apprenticeship to anybody looking for a course with a bit of everything".

Chloe Eaton, Business and Administration apprentice.

The Apprenticeship Framework

Diploma / NVQ (National Vocational Qualification): The qualification is a programme of work-based assessments and work place observations that build a portfolio of evidence and demonstrate the learner’s level of job related competences.

Key Skills: These are a range of essential skills that support success in education, employment, lifelong learning and personal development. The learner is required to present evidence of their key skills in a portfolio. In most cases, tests are also taken in supervised, timed sessions at the end of the course in order to complete the qualification. The subjects include: Communication, Application of Number, Information Technology, Working with Others, Problem Solving, and Improving Own Learning.

Technical Certificates: These are qualifications which provide the underpinning knowledge and understanding required of the Diploma / NVQ to be delivered through a taught programme. They will be assessed using case study work, projects or assignments, and end tests.

Funding: Our Apprenticeships are funded by the Skills Funding Agency. There are no course costs for the learner or employer; however contributions may be required for clothing / equipment if necessary.

Finance: Employed apprentices will be paid a wage by the company employing them.