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Apprenticeship Standards Explained

CPI apprentice with employer

What is an apprenticeship standard?

An Apprenticeship Standard is essentially the training course an apprentice studies whilst working for an employer. The knowledge, skills, and behaviours (KSBs) set out in the standard are specifically tailored to ensure that the apprentice is successful in that job role. 

As part of the apprenticeship standard, apprentices are working towards an end-point assessment (EPA), to demonstrate what they have learnt and skills they can perform in the occupation. Each apprenticeship standard has different KSB requirements, and each standard also has different requirements. 

Apprentice with Employer in laboratory

How to start an apprenticeship standard

Rather than applying for an apprenticeship standard as you would with a full-time course at College, you need to apply for an Apprenticeship Vacancy.

We have a variety of vacancies available in different industries, from Business Administration and Accountancy, to Dental Nursing and Motor Vehicle Maintenance. Whatever career you aspire to join, you can start off strong with Northern Skills. Take a look at our latest apprenticeship vacancies here.

The apprenticeship vacancy provides you with what the job will entail, the wage and working week hours and expected duration of the apprenticeship. You will also find the desired skills and personal qualities, and details about the employer. The apprenticeship standard is also listed on the vacancy.

When you have found a vacancy, click “Apply for Apprenticeship” and submit your details or create . You will be asked for your most recent school, your qualifications, work experience, skills you have that match the vacancy, and a little bit about yourself.

If your application is successful, you will be invited for an interview to discuss tour application in more detail. This will be with a member of the Northern Skills team, the employer directly or in some cases, both.

Secure that apprenticeship!

The team at Northern Skills are on hand to help you find and secure your dream apprenticeship. Whether it’s help writing and impressive CV or practising your interview skills. Click the button below to read our handy guide, How to Secure an Apprenticeship.

If you need extra support preparing for an apprenticeship, our Pre-apprenticeships programme helps you build your employability skills and boost your chances of securing an apprenticeship.

Dentistry Apprentice

Talk to us about your next step

Our friendly team are always happy to help! Get in touch with us to get your questions answered and to find out more about apprenticeships, or sign up to our monthly bulletin for the latest vacancies.