An apprenticeship with Suffolk New College will give you the chance to gain a nationally recognised qualification and develop valuable skills for the workplace. You’ll earn and learn on the job, giving you a strong foundation for a successful career.
Becoming an apprentice
If you’re ready to enter the world of work, as well as gain qualifications that employers look for, you can get the best of both worlds with an Apprenticeship at Suffolk New College.
Whether you’re leaving school, already in employment or looking to start a new career, the College offers Apprenticeships in a range of industries from Catering to Plumbing and Hairdressing to IT.
Frequently Asked Questions
An apprentice;
- Is usually a young person – but can be anyone over the age of 16
- Works alongside an experienced employee to learn specific skills
- Receives training – including training towards nationally recognised qualifications such as NVQs
- Earns a salary
- Gets paid holiday
The minimum apprenticeship wage applies to those aged 16-18, and those aged 19 or over who are in their first year. All other apprentices should be paid the national minimum wage for their age, or more.
For the latest up to date minimum wage information click here
Many employers are keen to keep their apprentices at the end of their training and try to find suitable posts for them when the apprenticeship ends. There is no guarantee of a job at the end of the apprenticeship but by completing it your chances of getting another job are very much greater.
Apprenticeships take between one and four years to complete depending on the level of the apprenticeship, the industry sector and the apprentice’s ability.
You will gain your qualifications through college assignments and work assessments throughout your apprenticeship. Your Suffolk New College assessor will meet with you and your manager regularly to:
- Create an Individual Learning Plan including work experience and technical knowledge
- Check on your progress on all aspects of the qualifications you are working towards
- Ensure your work experience supports your NVQ assignments
- Ensure your NVQ assignments are complete and submitted on time
- Visit our Apprenticeship Vacancies Page
- Look on the National Apprenticeship website where many vacancies are listed Find an Apprenticeship Service
- Approach employers who may have vacancies
Apprenticeship Guides
These handy downloadable guides give you all the introductory information you need as a student, parent or employer to get to grips with apprenticeships.
Contact the Apprenticeships Team
If you are interested in becoming an apprentice please call us on 01473 382600 or send us an email.