Frequently Asked Questions
There is a lot to know about Apprenticeships, and we understand that you might have lots of questions, so take a look at some of the most frequently asked questions below.
If you have some questions that are not listed below, contact our dedicated Apprenticeship Team on:
Apprentice Enquiries
Telephone: 01744 623521
Email: appenquiry@sthelens.ac.uk
Is an Apprenticeship the right choice for me?
If you are looking to gain recognised qualifications whilst gaining on-the-job experience and earning a wage, then an Apprenticeship could be a great option for you.
You should:
- Be aged 16 or over
- Have English and maths GCSEs at grade 4 or above (desirable not essential as this can be gained alongside Apprenticeship)
- Motivated to work
- Unemployed
- Have little or no work experience
Do I need any previous qualifications?
When applying for an Apprenticeship, this will be dependent on your employer and the level that you apply for but you will normally need at least a grade 4 or above in your English and maths GCSEs. If you don’t have these, don’t worry – you can work towards upskilling your English and maths alongside your Apprenticeship training.
Will I receive industry-related qualifications and training?
Yes. You will receive technical and knowledge-based qualifications, as well as practical, on-the-job training within your workplace.
Will I get paid?
When undertaking an Apprenticeship, you will receive the current minimum wage rate for an apprentice, which is £5.28 (as of April 2023). This rate applies to apprentices under 19 and those aged 19 or over who are in their first year.
Depending on your individual circumstances too, you may be entitled to some financial support.
If you are receiving welfare benefits, your JobCentre may be able to financially support you.
How long will it last?
An apprenticeship can take between one and four years to complete, depending on the type of apprenticeship and level you start at.