16
CONTENTS
get social with us SOTONCITYCOLLEGE @CITY_COLLEGE
Apprenticeships are a great way to gain nationally recognised qualifications whilst being employed and earning a wage. As an apprentice you can earn while you learn and gain practical skills from being in the workplace. They are also a great alternative to A-levels and university, with those building their careers through the apprenticeship route more likely to stay in work throughout their life. Most apprenticeship programmes include:
Depending on the level, they are suitable for both school leavers and adults with GCSE grades A* - E in English and maths, or equivalent. The minimum length of an intermediate or an advanced apprenticeship is 12 months, however depending on your apprenticeship this might take slightly longer.
what is an apprenticeship?
types of apprenticeship
an industry recognised qualification
Higher apprenticeships are equivalent to a foundation degree.
higher apprenticeship (Level 4+)
Relevant level 3 qualification (or equivalent) and maths and English GCSE at C or above.
entry requirements
Advanced apprenticeships are equivalent to two A-level passes.
advanced apprenticeship (Level 3)
Three GCSEs at grade C or above (including English and maths) or equivalent level 2 qualification (such as an intermediate apprenticeship)
entry requirements
Intermediate apprenticeships are equivalent to five GCSEs A* - C.
intermediate apprenticeship (Level 2)
English and maths GCSE (D/C) or equivalent. If you do not have maths or English you will complete functional skills as part of your apprenticeship.
entry requirements
functional skills in english, maths and ICTkey transferable skillsa knowledge based qualification
WWW.SOUTHAMPTON-CITY.AC.UK
why an apprenticeship?
why choose city college?
Register your interest with us and we will keep you up-to-date with the latest vacancies.
We can help you with your interview skills and preparation so you feel confident and prepared.
We are here to assist and support you through every step of your apprenticeship journey.
We can help you to create a structured CV to help you increase your chances of securing an interview.
Our state-of-the-art facilities provide the best opportunity to learn in real life working environments using modern industry standard equipment.
Whilst at college you will be taught by our experienced tutors who have establishedindustry experience.
WWW.SOUTHAMPTON-CITY.AC.UK
range of careers
BOAT BUILDINGMARINE ELECTRICALMARINE ENGINEERING
marine
ACCOUNTANCYBUSINESS ADMINISTRATIONHOUSINGInformation Technology (IT)
business & ITEARLY YEARSHEALTH & SOCIAL CARESUPPORTED TEACHING & LEARNING
health & education
BarberingBeauty TherapyHairdressingHospitality & Catering
service industries
HEAVY MOTOR VEHICLELIGHT motor vehicle
motor vehicle
BUILDING SERVICES ENGINEERINGELECTRICAL engineeringFABRICATION & WELDINGHEATING & VENTILATIONMECHANICAL ENGINEERING
engineering
BENCH JOINERYBRICKLAYINGCARPENTRYCIVIL ENGINEERINGCONSTRUCTION CONTRACTINGELECTRICAL installationPAINTING & DECORATING
construction
MEEt our apprentices
Works for - southampton city council, housing services
Keen to gain the skills, knowledge and qualifications for her career, Zoe took the apprenticeship pathway and has not only developed the all-round skills required of a painter and decorator but has also been crowned as Southampton City Council’s first ever female advanced apprentice.“I was really shy when I first started but all the guys have been really encouraging and supportive. I’ve grown in confidence and can honestly say that I haven’t been treated any differently as a female. I really enjoy working as well as learning, and getting paid for it has been a real bonus.”
Works for - city college southampton, human resources department
As a business admin apprentice, Andrew is providing full administrative support to the College’s HR department and is gaining a wealth of relevant hands on experience whilst getting qualified in business. His work involves a full range of office duties and customer facing services.“I work in a busy office but everyone has been really supportive, always making time to show me what to do. I’ve enjoyed meeting new people and being able to learn on the job. It’s great! I recommend you apply for an apprenticeship in something you’d enjoy, then knuckle down and work hard. It’s worth it in the end.”
WWW.SOUTHAMPTON-CITY.AC.UK
Works for - suttles, a specialist civil engineering company
Not daunted by heavy plant machinery, huge trucks and working in an all-male environment, Josie enjoys helping to maintain and repair plant machinery at a 35-acre quarry in Swanage.“I love my apprenticeship. I’m continually gaining hands on experience, working towards an industry-recognised qualification plus I’m earning money whilst I’m learning. I don’t think you can beat that. I may be the only female but I’m treated fairly and the guys are really supportive.”
Works for - affricardos, a unisex salon in southampton
Wanting to gain a life skill that he would enjoy, Harry decided to turn some work experience into a flourishing career in barbering.“I wanted to learn a lifetime trade and the apprenticeship was definitely the best way to go. I’m getting a good balance of the technical knowledge and hands on experience in a real work environment. My apprenticeship is not just cleaning and tidying up the salon, I am actually working directly with as many as 8 or 10 clients every day, applying my newfound skills from cutting and styling hair to doing wet razor shaves. Every day is different and I’m really enjoying it.”
Works for - gea pharma systems, an international engineering company
Since completing his advanced apprenticeship and achieving a double distinction on his level 3 BTEC, Calvin has furthered his career in engineering and now works full-time as an electrical fitter. His job involves fitting electrical components to pharmaceutical equipment and testing the machinery on completion.“The apprenticeship was excellent and I learnt things I never knew about the world of engineering. I went to college one day a week, which I found was a good way to gain the education and knowledge needed. City College gave me full support. I learnt new skills and gained industry knowledge I never had.”
how to find an apprenticeship
If you already have a job and your employer is willing to offer you an apprenticeship we will contact them to discuss the options available.
In order to complete an apprenticeship you must have first secured an apprenticeship position with an employer. If you have not been able to find an employer yourself, our dedicated business development team have a number of businesses looking for apprentices. Apprentices are in demand as an increasing number of employers are fully aware of the value and positive impact recruiting apprentices can have on their business.
stand out from the crowdThere is a lot of competition for apprenticeship places so you need to stand out from the crowd. You need to be enthusiastic, driven and motivated as employers want someone who can prove they have what it takes to be successful.
the apprenticeship job search
already employed?
Finding an apprenticeship is similar to finding a job. We regularly post apprenticeship vacancies on our website – which you can apply for.
If you are unable to find a vacancy that matches your criteria, a proactive approach will often impress employers. If you know the type of company you want to work for, and the type of apprenticeship you want to complete, then approach companies directly with a copy of your CV. Alternatively our apprenticeship team will be willing to assist your search.
WWW.SOUTHAMPTON-CITY.AC.UK
how to applyOur dedicated Apprenticeship Team will work with you to help you find employment within the sector of your choice and advise you on the right apprenticeship programme for your needs. You can apply for an apprenticeship with us through the following methods:
send us your cvAlternatively, to express a general interest in being considered for an apprenticeship, please email your CV to:
apply onlineWe work with a wide range of employers providing a recruitment service for their business needs. Our live vacancies are advertised on our website, which you can apply for. You can view our current live vacancies at:
Alternatively you can register with the National Apprenticeship Service – you will need an email address to do so.
If you are still at school and hoping to progress onto an apprenticeship when you finish, please search for the apprenticeship subject you are interested in on our website www.southampton-city.ac.uk and apply. If you don’t have an employer willing to take you on as an apprentice or can’t find a vacancy that suits your requirements, you can start on one of our full-time courses and progress to an apprenticeship on completion of your course or when a vacancy comes up.
still at school?
guide for employers
why choose us?As the largest provider of apprenticeships in the region, with a highly experienced and dedicated team, we can help your business find apprentices that meet your needs. We have a pool of talented students at the College and we can help match suitable candidates to your requirements. Once the apprentice(s) starts we continue our support and guidance for both you and the apprentice(s) with our dedicated Apprenticeship Team.
WWW.SOUTHAMPTON-CITY.AC.UK
taking on apprenticeSApprenticeships are work-based training programmes designed around the needs of employers, which lead to nationally recognised qualifications. Apprenticeships are a great way to train both new and existing employees who are moving into a new or changed job role. Combining the practical and knowledge gained at work and college your apprentice will begin to develop new skills and become capable in their role.
It can take between one and four years to complete an apprenticeship, depending on the ability of the person, the level they are working towards, and the type of sector they are working in. Employers of apprentices under the age of 25 are not required to pay National Insurance contributions (NICs) on earnings up to the Upper Earnings Limit (UEL), for those employees. As the employer you must give your apprentice(s) an induction into their role and provide on-the-job training. You are also responsible for paying your apprentices’ wages.
what are the benefits?
how long is an apprenticeship?
Progress your apprentice to suit your requirements
Apprentices will be qualified and trained to high occupational standards
Increased skills will help strengthen your competitiveness within your industry
Increased productivity through trained staff with the right skills for the job
Apprenticeships provide a career progression for your workforce
Apprenticeships give existing staff a fresh source of enthusiasm and motivation
Fantastic for your company’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR)
what our business partners think
QUALITY FINISH PATISSERIE
rnli
giro engineering LTD
WWW.SOUTHAMPTON-CITY.AC.UK
“We have enjoyed an excellent relationship with City College for the best part of 10 years. Successful integration of apprentices into our team is absolutely vital and due to the complex nature of our product, we need to ensure the next generation of engineers are well equipped. City College forms an integral part of that progression and we are able to rely on their tutoring both academically and socially. The three-way relationship formed between apprentice, Giro and the College has created talented engineers.”
Jonathan Stent Engineering ManagerGiro Engineering Ltd
“We hire all of our apprentices through City College. What sets the college apart is it’s not just willing, but keen to listen to the needs of the business and adapt its courses to the ever-changing landscape of the industry. For us, hiring apprentices allows us to create a new wave of driven young employees who are trained in the ‘Quality Finish’ way and able to lead the company forward far into the future.”
Hannah O’Doherty Operations ManagerQuality Finish Patisserie
“The college works closely with us, taking the time to fully understand our business needs, which is invaluable when ensuring our apprentices have the skills needed to deliver our lifesaving service now, and in the future. The environment created by the college is conducive to learning and we are particularly pleased with the quality of the updates we receive about our apprentices’ progress.”
Lynne MasonApprenticeship ManagerRNLI
GET SOCIAL WITH US
@CITY_COLLEGE
SOTONCITYCOLLEGE
