Pre-apprenticeship
Our Pre-Apprenticeship Programme is designed to help school leavers and young people take their first confident steps towards employment, further study, or an apprenticeship in their chosen industry.
Whether you’re interested in construction, digital, engineering, business, health, or motor vehicle, this 14-week programme will help you build the essential skills, experience and confidence needed to succeed in the workplace or move into a full apprenticeship.
You’ll begin with focused, college-based preparation and then transition to a structured work placement, giving you real insight into your future career path.
This programme is delivered in two phases:
Phase 1: College Preparation (Up to 6 Weeks)
Develop your employability, communication and teamworking skills
Work towards Functional Skills in English and maths (if not already achieved)
Explore your chosen industry and prepare for placement
Attendance: 3 days per week at college
Phase 2: Industry Placement (Up to 8 Weeks)
Spend up to 4 days a week in the workplace, gaining hands-on experience
Attend college 1 day a week to reflect, review and further develop your knowledge
Attendance: 1 day at college, 4 days in placement
Apply for this course
Select from the start date/s below…
North Devon CampusCourse details
Assessments
Learners would be encouraged to take a test to gain a recognised qualification in Maths and English.
Entry Requirements
There are no formal qualifications required. Entry is based on:
A positive attitude and willingness to learn
A successful interview and initial assessment
A genuine interest in one of the available sectors
Progression
Upon successful completion, you’ll be supported to progress onto:
A Foundation or Intermediate Apprenticeship (Level 2/3)
A Level 2 full-time vocational course
Further work experience or employment in your chosen sector
FAQs
What You Will Gain
Work experience with an employer in your chosen field
Development of essential workplace behaviours and technical understanding
Functional Skills qualifications in English and/or maths, if needed, Improved CV, interview confidence and industry knowledge, Personalised careers advice and preparation for progression
Who is this course for?
This programme is ideal for 16–18 year olds who want to build confidence, skills and experience before committing to a full-time apprenticeship or study programme.
Do I need to have any qualifications?
No. This course is open to learners of all academic backgrounds. If you haven’t already achieved English and maths, you’ll work towards Functional Skills as part of the course.
Will I get real work experience?
Yes – you will complete a structured placement with a local employer for up to 8 weeks, helping you develop confidence, independence, and hands-on understanding of your chosen career path.
What kind of support will I get?
You’ll be fully supported with careers advice, personal development, pastoral support, and access to wellbeing and counselling services throughout the course.
What happens after I finish?
Our team will support you in moving on to:
A Level 2 or 3 Apprenticeship
A full-time college course
A job in your chosen field
Why Petroc should be your first choice
Petroc offers quality education and training across North and Mid Devon. We aim to provide outstanding learning, excellent facilities, strong connections to employers and a supportive environment to help you fulfil your education goals and set you on your path to the career of your dreams.
SUPPORTIVE
We offer a supportive and inclusive environment where you can flourish and feel a valued member of the college and wider community.Â
INSPIRING
Our teaching spaces and facilities are some of the best in the region, providing stimulating and true-to-life learning environments.Â
CONNECTED
We’ll provide you with the experiences you need to be ready for employment or the next step on your educational journey.
