All our apprenticeships are qualifications developed in consultation with employers by the Institute of Apprenticeships and Technical Education.
Our industry sectors include:
Apprenticeships are available across a range of sectors, from engineering and construction to digital and healthcare. They are roles within a business in which apprentices gain a qualification whilst learning hands-on skills in employment.
To start an apprenticeship, your child will need to search and apply for an apprenticeship vacancy. Your child will need to submit their CV and take part in an interview process with the Northern Skills team and the employer. Apprenticeship vacancies can be found on our website here or on the official Find An Apprenticeship website here and are updated regularly with new opportunities.
Apprenticeships are designed to meet employer needs and combine 80% hands-on work experience with 20% theoretical study, either at a University, College, or on the job. Apprentices receive a salary, and course fees are covered by the employer and the government.
Whilst researching apprenticeships, you and your child will hear about standards and vacancies, and it can be tricky to know the difference:
Apprenticeship standard – the job role an apprentice is training for, that sets out the knowledge, skills and behaviours (KSBs) required to complete the apprenticeship. These were previously known as frameworks.
Apprenticeship vacancy – the role the apprentice takes on with an employer to gain the qualification. The job title may vary depending on the employer, but it will be matched with the appropriate standard. Employers can recruit apprentices throughout the year and advertise the role like a job role.
Our range of apprenticeship standards can viewed on our website, however your child will need to apply directly to an apprenticeship vacancy. The vacancy will list the role responsibilities, location, hours, salary, requirements and the apprenticeship standard.
If your child is unable to find an appropriate vacancy, they can register their details with the Northern Skills team and they will notify them of upcoming vacancies in their chosen industry. Click here to register.
Apprentices are entitled to a special minimum wage, which rises in accordance with their age and experience. Some companies will pay this wage initially and raise it. Employers can set their own wages.
The National Minimum Wage rate changes yearly. Click here to view the most up-to-date minimum wage for apprentices.
Degree apprenticeships (Levels 6 and 7) provide an excellent opportunity to earn a bachelor’s or master’s degree while working. These programs split your time between work and study, making them an attractive alternative to traditional university education.
No tuition fees: Covered by the employer and the government.
Salary: Apprentices receive a salary to cover living expenses, paid holidays, and sick leave. Salaries typically range from £7,000 to £18,000 per year, with some employers offering more.
Application process: Applicants apply directly through the companies offering the apprenticeships, not through UCAS.
