Information for apprentices

What are apprenticeships? 

Apprenticeships are structured work-based learning programmes which enable you to earn a salary while working towards a nationally recognised qualification. They combine practical hands-on experience with studying to equip you with the fundamental Skills, Knowledge and Behaviours (SKB) in your desired industry or occupation.

Your career progression is a priority of ours! Apprenticeships are an excellent way to enhance your professional development and boost your employability.

They are an accessible and flexible option for anyone who over the age of 16 seeking an alternative education pathway, fresh and exciting career opportunities, to upskill within their current role or change their career path with ease.

Why choose an apprenticeship?

• Open to everyone of all ages.
• Develop existing skills or learn something new.
• Earn as you learn.
• Gain a nationally recognised qualification.
• Career progression.

Work, learn and earn!

Are you ready to embark on an exciting new chapter? Our team of professionals are here to support you from start to finish as you embark on your learning journey. Start earning and deepen your learning through an apprenticeship with Waverley Training Services.

How do apprenticeships work?

Duration of apprenticeship

Each Apprenticeship Standard has a minimum duration, and they can take between one to five years to complete. This will depend on the Apprenticeship Standard and level you enrol on as well as any previous learning you have undertaken.

Structure of apprenticeship

Practical period

• Attend lessons with your tutor every 3 to 5 weeks.
• Learn and develop the relevant Knowledge, Skills and Behaviours (KSB) to achieve the selected Apprenticeship Standard, and complete tasks.
• Complete sufficient Off-the-Job hours.
• Receive support from your tutor and attend progress reviews every 12 weeks with tutor and line manager.

Gateway period

In order for a Learner to complete their end-point assessment, they must enter into the Gateway Period. It is like the transition period between the practical and the end-point assessment. The Gateway duration will differ depending on the Apprenticeship Standard, however all Learners must demonstrate the following:

• Ensure tasks set have demonstrated competency in all Knowledge, Skills and Behaviours detailed in the Apprenticeship Standard.
• Liaise with tutor and line manager to ensure you have completed the agreed or minimum Off-the-Job hours set in the training plan.

End-point assessment (EPA) period

• Book End-Point Assessment.
• Sit assessment components.
• Pass all elements of the EPA to achieve the Apprenticeship Standard.
• Awarded a nationally recognised qualification and certification.

Delivery of apprenticeship

You will be assigned a tutor who will deliver one to one blended and flexible teaching every month. They will provide you with Information, Advice and Guidance (IAG) as well as tailored support for you and your employer. Visits will be carried out during work hours between Learners and their tutor. They will take place every three to five weeks and will be approximately 1.5 hours duration. Teaching, learning and assessment visits will be conducted face to face or remotely. This will be decided between the Learner, their line manager and their tutor each month and will depend on the individuals’ needs and preferences. 

• Learning is flexible - delivered in person or remotely.
• Sessions take place every three and five weeks, lasting around 90 minutes.
• All training is tailored to suit you and your employer.
• Visits happen during work hours with your dedicated tutor.

What qualifications will I need?

For all Learners aged 16 to 18 at the start of their Apprenticeship, English and math are a mandatory requirement. Learners who have not previously obtained GCSE grade 4 to 9 (or equivalent) in English and math must works towards and achieve their Functional Skills as part of their Apprenticeship. The minimum achievement level of Functional Skills for this Apprenticeship Standard is Level 2.

For Learners aged 19 plus at the start of their Apprenticeship, the requirement for English and math is now optional. Employers must agree for the Apprentice to work towards Functional Skills. Learners who choose and agree to continue with their English and math training will receive the training needed and must sit the assessment but will not be required to achieve English or math prior to End-Point Assessment (EPA).

How do I apply: Am I eligible?

To be eligible you must:

• Be aged 16 or over.
• Have an eligible residency status.
• Have the right to work in England.
• Be employed for the duration of the Apprenticeship, including the EPA.
• Spend at least 50% of their working hours in England over the duration of the Apprenticeship.
• Not be currently enrolled on another Apprenticeship.
• Meet the qualification entry requirements of the Apprenticeship Standard and where applicable, be able to provide original qualification certificates at the start of their Apprenticeship

Information advice and guidance (IAG)

Waverley Training Services (WTS) is committed to providing impartial, high quality IAG, which promotes the value of Learning to Learners within the centre, and potential Learners, it is underpinned by the Matrix Standard to which WTS is accredited. It includes providing appropriate information on its services, careers advice and guidance within the context of  Apprenticeships.

Advice provided is impartial and confidential, enabling recipients and potential recipients to make informed choices as to the most appropriate route for their personal and career development. 

We ensure our IAG is:

• Accessible and inclusive

• Impartial and unbiased

• Confidential and respectful

• Tailored and supportive

• Reviewed to support continuous improvement

WTS promotes Equality of Opportunity and wherever possible we will seek to provide this information in an accessible way.

IAG is provided before and during enrolment, whilst you study on programme and when you complete your qualification.

IAG meetings

During the enrolment process you will meet with a Business Development Officer who will discuss and provide guidance on the qualification and the application process, whilst learning a bit more about you and your career aspirations.

Let's build your future - together.