APPRENTICESHIPS
Apprenticeships are a great way to earn while you learn, either entering a new industry of your choosing, or upskilling in your chosen area to progress.
Begin your journey into your dream career, whether that be with a traineeship or an apprenticeship, we can help you get your foot in the door with an exciting organisation.
Believe that you can make it to the very top, through your very own personalised approach to learning.
Become a leader in your field! Apprenticeships are a fantastic way of rising the ranks, they offer clear progression routes, and you can even gain degrees through apprenticeships.
At Weston College we are here to support you throughout the whole apprenticeship process, from how to write a CV, to interview tips, we’re here to support you.
Speak to our team about apprenticeships! Our dedicated team are here to support you through the apprenticeship journey.
Click here to book a 1:1 session with themAvailable Apprenticeships courses
BEGIN YOUR JOURNEY INTO AN EXCITING INDUSTRY
How My Apprenticeship Has Benefited Me
Hi, I’m Georgia, an apprentice at Weston College.
I started my Level 3 Business Administration Apprenticeship in May 2021 working in the Employment Services Department. It has been such a fantastic experience for me, and I have actually already received a promotion as an Account Co-ordinator within the West of England Works Team – whilst still completing my apprenticeship.
I didn’t start an apprenticeship fresh out of school or college, I was actually working in a full-time, permanent position, however I felt I wanted to gain a qualification whilst continuing to earn a wage. It was at this point I looked down the apprenticeship route.
After researching further into the different apprenticeship routes available, I decided that the Level 3 Business Administration apprenticeship was perfect for me. I feel that an apprenticeship gives you the perfect balance between work and study and this is just what I was after.
My apprenticeship has provided me with so many opportunities, and it has really helped me to develop a number of key skills, which will benefit me in my career.
One of the biggest skills I was able to learn and improve during my apprenticeship was my Digital Skills. I had the opportunity to complete my Microsoft Word, PowerPoint and Excel Certifications and I was able to earn the Microsoft Office Specialist: Associate Level Certification.
My apprenticeship has also helped me gain confidence in communicating with external stakeholders, as I have built the skills which enable me to communicate professionally and confidently. This has really benefited me in my new role, as I am required to communicate regularly with the external partners from the West of England Works Project.
If you’re reading this and considering an apprenticeship, you should definitely go for it! It will open new doors to you, and give you many transferable skills which will help you to achieve your career goals.
Not only that, the support available is second to none. I have received support from my assessor, manager and colleagues, which has meant that the whole process of my apprenticeship has been smooth and manageable.
Thanks to my apprenticeship, I have been able to start my career and I am excited to see what the future holds for me.
Georgia Stanbridge, Account Co-ordinator within the West of England Works Team
Apprentice Turned Mercedes Technician: Luke Recognised for WorldSkills Win
Level 3 Motor Vehicle apprentice Luke Merchant has been recognised with an award from the Institute of Motors Industry
(IMI) for his outstanding success as a WorldSkills Silver Medallist as he now accelerates into his career working as a Vehicle Technician with Mercedes!
WorldSkills UK is an independent charity that works with employers, education, and governments, supporting young people across the world via competitions-based training, testing their ability to achieve world-class standards in the biennial ‘skills Olympics’. Over 3,000 learners registered to take part in the UK-wide competitions in March 2021. Luke was awarded the prestigious silver medal at the 2021 automotive technologies finals where he has to compete as one of the top learners in the country.
After Luke finished his apprenticeship, he then went on to work as a Vehicle Technician at Mercedes Benz, Weston-Super-Mare where he continues his career in automotive technology.
Luke states: "Working for Mercedes has been great so far. I am really enjoying getting to know all their systems and processes.
“Winning the silver medal at WorldSkills and my time at Weston College has helped me massively. I'm now more confident in myself and always trying my best to develop and grow my skills."
Steve Harvey, Head of Business at Mercedes Sytner comments: "Since joining the team here at Mercedes Benz W-s-M, Luke has been doing a fantastic job!
Firstly, working alongside an experienced Mercedes-Benz technician, so he could understand how the workshop work flows, regarding health and safety, use of the diagnostic equipment and of course meeting the rest of the team. Luke has also got involved with looking at all process’s which are involved when working on our customers cars.”
Steve continues: "Luke is now working on his own, and we are really pleased with the progress he is making. At present with all the new product coming through from new electric to diesel and petrol and of course the awesome AMG range, it is an exciting time to be joining Mercedes-Benz and the Sytner Group!
Some of the electric cars which will be coming through are outstanding and have the latest high-tech equipment, safety, and performance packages available, for example the new EQS with the hyper screen.”
“Luke will now be able to have the full training on these types of vehicles, it is definitely a great time to join our team of very skilled technicians. We will certainly be looking for more aspiring talent to join our team. Luke is an example of what can happen with a tremendous attitude and drive to further his potential during and after completing his NVQ3."
Weston College’s involvement with WorldSkills is just one of the exclusive opportunities available to learners through their newly launched Career Excellence Hubs. At the College, each subject area forms its own specific Career Excellence Hub, endorsed by relevant sector employers which help to create a study programme with lots of career boosting benefits, which include WorldSkills competing opportunities.
NOT QUITE READY FOR AN APPRENTICESHIP?
If you’re not quite ready for an apprenticeship, we have many pre-apprenticeship opportunities on offer.
WANT TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT STUDYING AN APPRENTICESHIP?
Contact our Apprenticeship Team to find out if an apprenticeship is right for you!
FIND OUT MORE
Click on the boxes below to find out more
Apprenticeships are an increasingly popular way of gaining nationally recognised qualifications alongside workplace experience, which is vital in the current economic climate. If you're thinking about following this route, these steps will help you get started.
What type of apprenticeship can I choose?
We have over 70 areas to choose from, from barbering to business administration and engineering to estate agency.
Our apprenticeships are available for people that want to just enter the industry, or for people that are looking to progress and upskill.
When should I apply?
If you're looking at starting the apprenticeship imminently, then you can apply today. If you’re leaving school in the summer and have chosen an apprenticeship as your preferred career path you can apply for the course and we will get in touch with you for a course interview. Our award winning Apprenticeship Recruitment Team will be able to offer you lots of support in how to find an apprenticeship that’s right for you.
How do I find an employer?
If you’re just starting out in a new industry, we can support you. Our apprenticeship team receive new vacancies from employers every day and can match you with an organisation that is a great fit for you and the employer.
We also have a wide range of employers that have vacancies right now, you can view them, here.
How do I apply for a vacancy?
When you see a vacancy you like, please hit the ‘apply now’ button and fill out your details. You will then be redirected the National Apprenticeship Service's " Find an Apprenticeship" website where you will be able to complete an online application form.
Do I need a CV?
Yes, employers want to get to know you, and make sure that you’ll both be a great fit for each other.
Writing a CV can be daunting, but our team can help. Please email the Apprenticeship Team at apprenticeships@weston.ac.uk who will be able to support you.
What happens next?
When your CV has been submitted to an employer, you may be asked to attend an interview. Our Recruitment Team will support you through this, offering interview techniques and training- just give us a call.
If you’re new to apprenticeships, then I’m sure that you will have many questions. This useful guide will hopefully provide you, with the answers that you need.
How old do you have to be for an apprenticeship?
Anyone over the age of 16 can be an apprentice. We offer apprenticeships from Level 2 right through to Degree Level – so we can help you enter the industry or develop your skills to progress in your current organisation.
Do I need to attend College?
It depends on your apprenticeship. The majority of our apprenticeships are delivered in the workplace, but some may include block release for you to attend college.
Will I be paid?
Yes, apprenticeships give you the perfect opportunity to earn while you learn. Your actual salary will be determined by your employer, but the National Minimum Wage for an apprentice is £4.81 for under 19 and over 19’s in the first year of apprenticeship, followed by the National Minimum Wage for your age.
How long should the apprenticeship take to complete?
This varies depending on the level of Apprenticeship that you are studying. The minimum amount of time spent on a level 2 Apprenticeship is just over a year.
Do I get holidays?
Yes. As an employee of any business, you are entitled to the statutory minimum of 20 days paid holiday per year, pro rata.
Are all the jobs local?
Our apprenticeship vacancies are across the region, including Bristol, Taunton, Bridgwater, Clevedon, Nailsea, Portishead, Gloucestershire and Wiltshire.
What is the apprenticeship qualification equivalent to?
- Level 2 is equivalent to five GCSEs at grade A-C/9-4
- Level 3 is equivalent to two A Levels
- Level 4 and 5 are equivalent to a Foundation Degree
- Level 6 and 7 are equivalent to a Degree
Can I get additional support if I have learning difficulties?
Yes. Support is available to all apprentices who have been identified as having additional learning needs.
Hear from our apprentices and their employers
LATEST NEWS
<p>My name is Jack, and I completed my Nuclear Engineering Degree Apprenticeship with Weston College in July 2022– which was sponsored by the Ministry of Defence.</p><p>I applied directly for my role with the Ministry of Defence, who in turn had arranged for their apprenticeship to be delivered through Weston College. After completing my A-Levels I took a few years away from education to pursue a volunteering role overseas, and upon my return to the UK was looking at ways to follow my desires to become an engineer. Exploring my options, including a ‘conventional’ University course, I discovered the world of degree apprenticeships and was excited by the opportunity to learn academic theory and see its direct application in the workplace. The prospect of earning a wage whilst doing so was just an added bonus!</p><p>The degree apprenticeship benefited me in ways that my friends who completed conventional degrees never could; to explore the breadth and depth of my chosen discipline both with academics, and with working professionals. Additionally, I was given the opportunity from day 1 of my studies to contribute to and deliver work for my employer that was of real-world significance and consequence, not purely academic exercises. Being able to work whilst studying also enabled me to reaffirm that engineering was a discipline that I wished to pursue professionally.</p><p>Being an apprentice brings a plethora of benefits, ranging from the opportunities to gain practical experience, to being prepared for the world of work. Qualifying for student discount and getting paid to learn are rather nice perks too!</p><p>Furthermore, working for the Ministry of Defence provided some once in a lifetime opportunities, ranging from seeing Submarines in construction, to going out on Operations with the NATO Submarine Rescue System, and travelling internationally to work with colleagues around the world. The mentoring and support that the MOD provided, and the encouragement to pursue personal development was really helpful and enabled me to undertake additional studies at university, whilst also engaging in STEM outreach work with the Nuclear Institute.</p><p>As this was a new course, and I was part of the first cohort to be sponsored through Weston College by the MOD, there was a steep learning curve. Both for us, and the staff through the five years of the scheme. In addition to the cultural changes to learn, trying to learn Nuclear engineering wasn’t without its difficulties. However, despite challenges and setbacks we, my friends and I, were able to complete the scheme and we all graduated and have been able to take up full time employment.</p><p>Since completing the degree apprenticeship, I've taken up a role with Rolls-Royce Submarines, where I work as a mechanical engineer. This is an exciting role which I'm deeply enjoying, and one that my apprenticeship helped prepare me for.</p><p>Completing a degree apprenticeship is a really rewarding (and challenging!) way of furthering your own education and competencies. There are more and more opportunities for degree apprenticeships becoming available every year, and so it’s certainly worth considering! Take time to research your potential employer, and the apprenticeship standard, to make sure it aligns with what you want to do. If you find a good fit, then there is no better way of getting into the world of work whilst continuing your education.</p><p>Apprenticeships have the power to unlock doors, provide opportunities and prepare you for the workplace in ways that universities don’t. If there is an opportunity to pursue your aspirations through an apprenticeship, then I cannot stress enough how seriously you should consider going down the apprenticeship route.</p><p><em>Jack</em></p><p><a href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/apprenticeships?utm_source=ma… you would like to follow in Jack's footsteps and complete a degree apprenticeship, you can check out our courses, by clicking here. </a></p><p><a href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/news/weston-college-enrol-300-apprentices-50-d… you're an employer and would like to employ someone like Jack, you can do so through our 300 in 50 campaign. Find out more, by clicking here. </a></p>
<p>Starting out on a new career path is one of the most exciting things a young person can ever do. The learning of new skills, meeting new people in all sorts of different jobs, going to new places, and embracing what’s to come. At Thatchers we really appreciate what an important step taking on a new career is, and through our Early Careers Programme one of the most important things we can do is listen, encourage and offer the best training around.</p>
<p>We know that we have a huge responsibility to make sure you’re receiving the best advice, the best mentoring, and the best opportunities. And we’re helping you unlock your future.</p>
<p>We’re so lucky at Thatchers to be able to offer a range of <a href="https://www.thatcherscider.co.uk/careers/apprenticeships/">apprenticesh…; and <a href="https://www.findapprenticeship.service.gov.uk/traineeship/1000075865">t…; all based here at Myrtle Farm. Whatever your skill set, whatever your ambitions, come and talk to us. Give it a go - we’d love to hear from you.</p>
<p>Our apprentices have learned how to be cider makers, how to care for our orchards, and how to be part of our successful commercial team. Every day is different at Myrtle Farm, and if we ask our apprentices what they’ve got out of being part of the Thatchers family, we hear words such as confidence, self-esteem, skills, getting the best of both worlds, experience – and a career within a growing, successful company.</p>
<p>If hospitality is where you see your future, then we’ve got some great opportunities at our beautiful pub and restaurant, The Railway Inn, here in Sandford.</p>
<p>Through our brand new<a href="https://www.findapprenticeship.service.gov.uk/traineeship/1000075865"> traineeships</a> we’ve set up with Weston College, we’re now able to offer more opportunities at The Railway Inn – what could be a better way to learn and develop your skills within hospitality and catering.</p>
<p>Are you a creative and see yourself using your flair and technical skills as part of a dynamic kitchen team? Or do you have a love for meeting and greeting new people, offering the highest levels of customer service, and experiencing the buzz and excitement of working at events?</p>
<p>If you’re following a <a href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/hospi… course at Weston College</a>, we’d love to hear from you. Being a part of our traineeship could lead to a full-time position with Thatchers, or perhaps could lead to one of our award-winning apprenticeships.</p>
<p>We’ve currently got positions for a Trainee Commis Chef, working closely with our head chef James and his brilliant team. We looking for someone who can work in a fast paced and high pressured environment, and who has a flair and passion for delivering high standards of food. Or are you someone who would thrive in a public facing role that requires good initiative and attentiveness towards providing top quality service to every single customer. If so, then one of our front of house roles working with Leigh and her enthusiastic and passionate team may be for you.</p>
<p>We know these are more than just jobs. They could be your future. So we’ll be running skills workshops, masterclasses and a host of other training opportunities that will complement your college learning, and will form the basis of an exciting future within the hospitality industry.</p>
<p><a href="https://www.thatcherscider.co.uk/careers/">Check out our website</a>, or chat to <a href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/supporting-you/careers-advice">Weston College Recruitment team</a>. We look forward to being a part of your future!</p>
<p><em>- Emma Cox, Thatchers Cider </em></p>
<p paraeid="{f2e88f67-a2c9-4b63-9f43-de33315451d0}{188}" paraid="501734755"><em>“Our NHS and social care staff have showed us time and again – throughout the pandemic and beyond – what it means to work with compassion and dedication to transform lives.” </em></p>
<p class="text-align-right" paraeid="{f2e88f67-a2c9-4b63-9f43-de33315451d0}{194}" paraid="902946560">- Health and Social Care Secretary, Steve Barclay </p>
<p paraeid="{f2e88f67-a2c9-4b63-9f43-de33315451d0}{201}" paraid="1849525673"> </p>
<p paraeid="{f2e88f67-a2c9-4b63-9f43-de33315451d0}{201}" paraid="1849525673">The opportunities in the Healthcare profession are almost entirely endless, and here at Weston College we think pursuing a career in Health is a great choice! </p>
<p paraeid="{f2e88f67-a2c9-4b63-9f43-de33315451d0}{207}" paraid="2106792276">Read on to find out our top 5 reasons why. </p>
<p paraeid="{f2e88f67-a2c9-4b63-9f43-de33315451d0}{213}" paraid="18606834"> </p>
<p paraeid="{f2e88f67-a2c9-4b63-9f43-de33315451d0}{213}" paraid="18606834"><strong>1. Job Satisfaction: Making a difference </strong></p>
<p paraeid="{f2e88f67-a2c9-4b63-9f43-de33315451d0}{220}" paraid="881279958">9 times out of 10 the biggest lure to a career in Health is the immense impact you have on people’s lives on a daily basis. </p>
<p paraeid="{f2e88f67-a2c9-4b63-9f43-de33315451d0}{226}" paraid="1727397476">As our new Health and Social Care Secretary, Steve Barclay explains, working in the health sector means having the ability to positively impact and transform the lives of those in your care. Whether working as a Nurse, Midwife, Paramedic or Home Carer your role is infinitely significant to every single patient who’s path you cross; YOU can make a difference. </p>
<p paraeid="{f2e88f67-a2c9-4b63-9f43-de33315451d0}{234}" paraid="425065479">Often your role will encompass even more than that too, with opportunities to interact and provide support for the patient’s family members and loved ones. </p>
<p paraeid="{f2e88f67-a2c9-4b63-9f43-de33315451d0}{240}" paraid="1229716862">You may be thinking ‘how does this apply to roles that aren’t patient-facing?’ Remember, every role in the Health industry has a monumental impact on a patient’s life and wellbeing. For example, chefs and cleaners are integral to creating a healthy and happy environment to ensure the patient’s comfort and state of mind is at optimum. Every role is important in healthcare! </p>
<p paraeid="{f2e88f67-a2c9-4b63-9f43-de33315451d0}{240}" paraid="1229716862"> </p>
<p paraeid="{f2e88f67-a2c9-4b63-9f43-de33315451d0}{240}" paraid="1229716862"><strong>2. A Growing Industry </strong></p>
<p paraeid="{8594dbfc-416e-4524-84bb-94e0b7642eb9}{16}" paraid="1905624719">The NHS is one of the biggest employers in Europe - employing just over 1.4 million people for a wide range of roles including <a href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-adults/health-and-soc…; rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">Laboratory Technicians</a>, <a href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-adults/health-and-soc…; rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">Senior Healthcare Support Workers</a> and <a href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-adults/health-and-soc…; rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">Nursing Associates.</a> No matter what level or area of interest, there is a role for you! </p>
<p paraeid="{8594dbfc-416e-4524-84bb-94e0b7642eb9}{43}" paraid="1118593593">Health Secretary, Steve Barclay, says “this government is investing more than ever before in our NHS and care services to beat the COVID-19 backlogs, recruit 50,000 more nurses, reform social care and ensure patients across the country can access the care they need.” The rapid growth and work abundancy in this sector means you will always be in high demand, so you can enjoy excellent job security! </p>
<p paraeid="{8594dbfc-416e-4524-84bb-94e0b7642eb9}{59}" paraid="1247539438">Click the links above to find out more about these roles and the opportunities available in Health at Weston College. </p>
<p paraeid="{8594dbfc-416e-4524-84bb-94e0b7642eb9}{65}" paraid="349260546">Alternatively, take a look at our <a href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/healt…; rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">T level,</a> <a href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/healt…; rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">BTEC Extended diploma</a> and <a href="https://www.ucw.ac.uk/subject/counselling-and-healthcare/" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">degree-level</a> pathways into the health industry to find the right fit for you! </p>
<p paraeid="{8594dbfc-416e-4524-84bb-94e0b7642eb9}{104}" paraid="2108146206"> </p>
<p paraeid="{8594dbfc-416e-4524-84bb-94e0b7642eb9}{104}" paraid="2108146206"><strong>3. Working with People </strong></p>
<p paraeid="{8594dbfc-416e-4524-84bb-94e0b7642eb9}{111}" paraid="751457904">If you’re someone that excels in social environments, Health is a perfect industry for you – with teamwork being one of the most integral parts of the job. Working in the Health sector means being part of a huge, intertwining community with care and support at its core and positivity flowing throughout! </p>
<p paraeid="{8594dbfc-416e-4524-84bb-94e0b7642eb9}{111}" paraid="751457904"> </p>
<p paraeid="{8594dbfc-416e-4524-84bb-94e0b7642eb9}{111}" paraid="751457904"><strong>4. Pays and Benefits </strong></p>
<p paraeid="{8594dbfc-416e-4524-84bb-94e0b7642eb9}{139}" paraid="556749061">The Healthcare profession offers a variety of perks. According to <a href="https://www.healthcareers.nhs.uk/working-health/working-nhs/nhs-pay-and…; rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">NHS pay and benefits</a> the NHS has one of the most generous pension schemes on offer and as an NHS employee, you’ll have unique access to a health service discounts scheme too. </p>
<p paraeid="{8594dbfc-416e-4524-84bb-94e0b7642eb9}{154}" paraid="1019574394">Alternatively, you may decide to work for a private healthcare provider – many of which generously offer free life insurance, health screenings and training as part of their employment packages. </p>
<p paraeid="{8594dbfc-416e-4524-84bb-94e0b7642eb9}{160}" paraid="925752513">In addition to this, you can also enjoy the benefit of a flexible work schedule and generous holiday allowance for most roles. </p>
<p paraeid="{8594dbfc-416e-4524-84bb-94e0b7642eb9}{160}" paraid="925752513"> </p>
<p paraeid="{8594dbfc-416e-4524-84bb-94e0b7642eb9}{160}" paraid="925752513"><strong>5. You can Live Anywhere </strong></p>
<p paraeid="{8594dbfc-416e-4524-84bb-94e0b7642eb9}{175}" paraid="248717138">Finally, another reason pursuing a career in Health is a great choice, this profession allows you to live and work anywhere! Interested in travel or living abroad? Working in health means they’ll always be a job for you no matter where you go! </p>
<p paraeid="{8594dbfc-416e-4524-84bb-94e0b7642eb9}{181}" paraid="810411340"> </p>
<p paraeid="{8594dbfc-416e-4524-84bb-94e0b7642eb9}{185}" paraid="1429112356">If these 5 reasons left you feeling excited about your future in Health, find out more about all of pathways available at Weston College <a href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/healt…; rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">here!</a> </p>
<p paraeid="{8594dbfc-416e-4524-84bb-94e0b7642eb9}{194}" paraid="885891958">To find out about Higher Education opportunities in health at UCW <a href="https://www.ucw.ac.uk/subject/counselling-and-healthcare/" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">click here.</a> </p>
