Intermediate apprenticeships are also known as Level 2 apprenticeships and they are a great route for school leavers looking to get into the world of work. Whether you’re looking for an alternative route to A Levels or you’re keen to learn more about a specific industry, intermediate apprenticeships are a viable option.
What is an intermediate apprenticeship?
An intermediate apprenticeship or level 2 apprenticeship combines on the job training with academic study. While in full time employment, you will study towards a level 2 qualification like an NVQ Level 2 and a BTEC Diploma and Certificate, related to the sector you’re keen to pursue a career in. If you’re looking to develop industry-essential skills, work experience and a nationally recognised qualification, then this is a great opportunity for you to do just that!
What is an intermediate apprenticeship equivalent to?
An intermediate level apprenticeship is the same as gaining 5 GCSEs which are A* – C (9 – 4 on the new grading system). If you don’t have any formal qualifications then an intermediate apprenticeship can help you gain them so you can take the first steps in your chosen career path.
What is an intermediate apprenticeship like?
During your apprenticeship, you’ll be working a minimum of 30 hours a week with your employer and studying towards gaining your qualification with a college or training provider. This might be done as a block of days with your college or you might be required to go to college one day per week. Alternatively, your trainer might come to the workplace to assess you or you might be required to study virtually.
If you don’t already have GCSEs then you will complete your functional skills, in English, maths and sometimes IT, at a Level 2. A level 2 apprenticeship typically takes between 12 and 18 months to complete. Once you have finished your apprenticeship, there will be opportunities for you to progress onto an advanced level apprenticeship.
What qualifications do I need?
For an intermediate level apprenticeship, you don’t normally need any formal qualifications, however, some employers do ask for GCSE passes as part of their entry requirements so always check the job description to be certain! Some employers will also ask you to sit basic tests in maths and English to ensure the opportunity is right for you but this isn’t always the case.
Apprenticeships are designed to help you gain qualifications and relevant industry experience. Employers recognise that you’re not going to be an expert and are much more interested in your passion and willingness to learn, after all, you’ll gain skills and knowledge during your apprenticeship!
How do they work?
Throughout your apprenticeship, you’ll be exposed to learning and development opportunities which will help you to enhance your employability skills as well as your knowledge of the sector you’re working in. As you become more knowledgeable your daily tasks and responsibilities will expand. You will also have your colleagues or a workplace mentor who will be there to offer you as much support as you need.
You will spend 80% of the apprenticeship learning in the workplace and the other 20% will be spent studying towards your level 2 qualification. Upon completion of you intermediate apprenticeship you will qualify with a level 2, the equivalent of 5 GCSE passes (A* – C or 9 – 4), as well as functional skills.
Depending on the job role, your employer might also support you to gain other qualifications. For example, if you’re working with machinery you might gain additional qualifications in safely operating machinery which directly relates to your role.
Is a level 2 apprenticeship right for me?
If you’re thinking about a level 2 apprenticeship but unsure if it’s right for you then don’t worry. Intermediate apprenticeship are open to all ages but might not be suitable for you. If you already have 5 or more GCSEs then an advanced level apprenticeship, which is equivalent to 2 A Level passes might be better suited for you.
If you don’t have any or many GCSEs then an intermediate level apprenticeship could be an ideal route for you.
What type of level 2 apprenticeships are there?
From finance to adult care working, there is a wide variety of intermediate apprenticeships available. In fact, you might be surprised to learn that there are over 120 apprenticeships available at level 2! To name a few, these include:
- Adult care worker
- Animal care
- Aviation
- Beauty
- Construction
- Chef
- Customer service
- Groundworker
- Public services
- Leisure
- Retail
This list is not exhaustive and there are lots more available, to see the full list visit the Institute for Apprenticeships.
How much will I get paid?
The apprentice minimum wage is £4.15 (as of April 2020). This wage applied to apprentices in their first year, who are 19 and over and apprentices under the age of 19. If you’re 19 and over in your second year, apprentices must be paid the national minimum wage for their age group.
Where can I find an intermediate apprenticeship?
Decided a level 2 apprenticeship is the right route for you? Head over to the careermap.co.uk job search tool to find thousands of opportunities right for you! We have opportunities available with a wide range of employers covering a variety of industries.