Schools and colleges play a key role in the decision-making process for young people and their parents.
However, we understand that distilling and advising on the volumes of apprenticeships information available can be a complex process – we can provide you with all the information and resources that you need.
Apprenticeships offer apprentices the chance to learn job-relevant skills, build valuable experience and gain real qualifications that will positively start their career journey. On top of this, apprentices earn a real salary, have no fees to pay, and can enjoy the benefits of being a full-time employee.
Apprenticeships have changed significantly over the last few years and are currently developing at a rapid pace. It is critical for schools to keep themselves up to date and to understand how they can benefit all of their pupils and staff, regardless of their academic ability. From level 2 (intermediate) up to level 7 (masters) there are a range of different apprenticeship standards available for the vast majority of job roles.
Ready to start promoting Apprenticeships? Have a look around and take advantage of the resources available. There are a range of projects available that can help you promote Apprenticeships in your school. For more information please email us.
The apprenticeship support and knowledge for schools (ASK) project
Funded by the Education and Skills Funding Agency
The GMLPN are offering a range of inspirational and engaging impartial Apprenticeship information and support to all schools in Greater Manchester for students in years 10, 11, 12 and 13.
Depending on the schools’ requirements we deliver a combination of any of the sessions described below:
- Assembly or workshop providing an overview of Apprenticeships
- Registration sessions on the Find an Apprenticeship website
- Recruitment Process Support
- Teacher Sessions
- Information stands or presentation to parents at evening events
Where possible, Apprenticeship Ambassadors support the session, adding value for the benefit of the students.
If you are a school or college that would like GMLPN to deliver an Apprenticeship session, please contact Matt Leigh:
An apprenticeship is a career, not just a job. They combine working and learning and are designed to enable an individual to progress within a business over a longer period of time whilst gaining nationally recognised qualifications. Throughout the apprenticeship, most of the apprentice’s time will be spent in the workplace gaining real experience with an employer.
This time is called ‘on-the-job’. Some of this time will also be spent with a training provider, who will help apprentice to learn and achieve their qualifications. This time is called ‘off-the-job’ training.
As of the 1st April 2021, the National Minimum Wage for Apprentices is £4.30 an hour, but many employers pay more than this. In fact, some higher apprenticeships can pay as much as £500 per week. However, more than just earning a salary, apprentices receive training and qualifications in the skills employers really want, increasing their future earning potential. Apprentices receive marked salary increases on completion of their training and the roles often offer great opportunities for career progression.
Anyone aged 16 or over and not in full time education is eligible to start an apprenticeship. Year 11 students can also apply for a position if they will be 16 at the start of the apprenticeship.
Apprenticeships are fully-funded between the government and the employer, meaning that an apprentice’s only expenses will be getting to and from work or training.
Traineeships are aimed at giving 16-24 year-olds the opportunity to develop the skills they need to find, and succeed in, employment or progress onto an Apprenticeship. They are comprised of three main elements to prepare you for an Apprenticeship, including English and Maths, work preparation skills and a practical work placement with a local employer. Traineeships are unpaid (however travel expenses and costs of meals may be reimbursed) and should be viewed as a stepping stone into work. They can last anywhere between six weeks and six months.
While it is widely acknowledged that full-time education, such as college, sixth form or university is a proven route into employment, this route does not always offer the valuable work experience that an Apprenticeship can offer and there’s still no guarantee of a job at the end. Apprenticeships allow you to earn while you learn, and give you the opportunity to develop the skills employers really want, including specific skills relating to your job, their company and your sector. There are even degree apprenticeships which allow you to gain a degree while earning a salary, and without paying any tuition fees.
The Amazing Apprenticeships Website contains a suite of resources for teachers and careers staff. These include Learn at Home resources specifically designed in response to the Covid-19 pandemic.
The Apprenticeship Support and Knowledge (ASK) for Schools Programme provides schools with free impartial apprenticeship information for assemblies, classrooms and parents events. The programme also offers practical support to students to help them search and apply for opportunities.
During the current Covid-19 pandemic a virtual ASK offer is available for schools. This includes webinars and other virtual sessions including recognising strengths, writing applications and interview skills.
Establishing connections with employers is a positive step towards linking your students to an Apprenticeship. Bridge GM was formed to provide the advice, support and guidance to schools and colleges to make employer engagement much easier and more effective. They help you build strong bridges and forge long-lasting connections with Greater Manchester’s business community that benefit both your students and the local economy. And we’ll also give you the tools to bring the world of work to life.
The Find an Apprenticeship website contains live apprenticeship vacancies where students can search and apply for opportunities. Each vacancy provides information about the apprenticeship, the job role, the employer and the training provider
The Greater Manchester Apprenticeship & Careers Service – or GMACS – has been created to help young people plan their future and to connect you to the best talent. GMACS.co.uk is the go-to place to help young people expand their horizons and be prepared for those important future decisions.
