Apprenticeships

Equivalent to five GCSE passes grades 9-4 or A*-C (i.e. NVQ Level 2)

Will receive a competency-based and a knowledge-based qualification

Great option for 16-year olds who don’t want to study A levels

Good opportunity to upskill staff of any age

May need two+ GCSEs including English and maths, but it’s possible to study these while doing your apprenticeship

Can progress to advanced/higher apprenticeships

Typically completed within 18 months

Equivalent to two A level passes

Typically need five+ GCSEs at grades 9 – 4 (A* – C), including English and maths

Attract people who already have Level 3 qualifications, such as A levels or BTECs, and are highly competitive

May also have to compete with existing employees who want to gain a qualification to reflect the work experience they have

Can take up to two years to complete

Equivalent to foundation degree, Higher National Diploma, NVQ Level 4

Typically need Level 3 qualifications like A levels, NVQs or a BTEC, ideally relevant to apprenticeship standard

Could take up to five years to complete, depending on pace of study

Expect to compete with employed adults and, maybe, existing staff