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apprenticeship FAQs

We know that undertaking an apprenticeship can be confusing. You may be wondering what level you should go for, or how you go about finding an employer. Well don't worry... we're here to help!

Take a look at the FAQs below, and if you still aren't sure, give our Advice & Guidance Centre a call - they'll be happy to hear from you.

Frequently Asked Questions

There's a step-by-step process to apply for an apprenticeship:

  • Decide which apprenticeship you want to do.
  • Create a CV.
  • Find an apprenticeship vacancy with an employer. There are three ways of doing this:
    1. Through the Government website or via the Petroc apprenticeship vacancies site.
    2. By approaching a business directly.
    3. By signing up to Petroc Talent Pool, where our team will help you source a suitable employer.
  • You might also benefit from speaking with family and friends about undertaking work experience opportunities to either help start learning your trade or as an avenue to gain an apprenticeship.
  • Once you have secured an employer, you can then apply for an apprenticeship course with Petroc (we will provide the training element of the apprenticeship).
  • We’ll then invite you in for an interview.
  • Once your apprenticeship has been secured, Petroc will get in touch with your employer to organise the delivery of your apprenticeship.

N.B. It's also worth applying for a full-time programme as a plan B!

Just ask your employer to contact us directly at business@petroc.ac.uk or on 01271 852407 and we'll do the rest!

Ask your employer to speak to our apprenticeship team at business@petroc.ac.uk or on 01271 852407.

We offer apprenticeships from Level 2 (GCSE equivalent) right up to Level 7 (degree level) across a huge range of industries.

All apprenticeships include elements of 'on the job' and 'off the job' training, leading to industry recognised standards or qualifications.

Apprenticeships also require an assessment at the end of the programme to assess your ability and competence in the job role.

Take a look at the table below for a guide on the best level for you:

Name Level

Equivalent Educational Level

Intermediate 2 5 GCSE passes at grade A*– C or 9 – 4
Advanced 3 2 A Level passes/Level 3 Diploma/ International Baccalaureate
Higher 4,5,6 and 7 Foundation degree and above
Degree 6 and 7 Bachelor’s or master’s degree

The national minimum wage for apprentices varies according to your age and whether you are in the first year of your apprenticeship.

(As at April 2023):

Age Wage
Under 18 £5.28
18-20 £7.49
21-22 £10.18
23 and over £10.42

This is the legal minimum pay per hour, most apprentices receive more.

Apprenticeships are available to anyone over the age of 16 who lives in England. They have no upper age limit.

There will be different entry requirements depending on the industry, job role and apprenticeship level.

The minimum duration of each apprenticeship is based on you working 30 hours a week or more, including any off-the-job training you undertake.

The time spent on off-the-job training should be at least 20% and should be included as part of working hours.

A £1,000 bursary is available to support care leavers who are aged 16-24, which will be paid directly to you in the first year of the apprenticeship.

Need further assistance?

Please get in touch with the Advice & Guidance Centre:

North Devon
01271 852422
Tiverton
01884 235245