Apprentiships

Sncjw

Hi has anyone got any experiences of apprentiships. Basically I have qualifications in health care and I have retail experience. I have to change my career due to some health issues. I don't think il be able to afford or get a buisness and admin course for free if I claim jsa, the appremtiships look good because I can get the qualification and also earn money at the same time.

Anyone have experience in them and any tips if I do get an apprentiship. I have already applied for 5 in my area and will do more as and when they come up. Did you find that there was a job at the end of it too.

ohreally

What level are you healthcare qualifications? This may have a bearing on funding for the employer/ provider.

Sncjw

I have btec in health and social care level 3 and a certificate of higher education in healthcare studies. I was going to be a nurse but been removed from course due to hearing. I looked into doing business and admin course part time while on dole topping up my low wage and saw they won't do it for free sometimes. I looked at apprentiship and looked like it was a perfect thing a qualification while working, I really don't want to be on the dole.

My education has been geared up for health care work but I now need to look at other options while I'm young

Sanne

I have experience from the other side as I recruited for and managed an apprentice. The company had three apprentices before him and there was a job for each if them at the end if their course and it is hoped that there will be for the fourth apprentice as well.

It looks like there will be funding implications (I'll leave that to an expert) but there are loans to cover this if needs be - an employer may even be willing to do this as well. I enquirer about costs for a L3 apprenticeship (the apprentice was doing a level 2 and wanted to move on to l3) and it didn't cost a lot at all. I won't put up numbers as it may differ from college to college though. We had a lot of applications from older people (in their 20s and one in their early 30s) and have considered all of them.

Good luck

Sncjw

It's not fair if they refuse as it's a different area I want to do it in.

Sanne

Funding also depends on your age - the college we were working with said there'd be some changes and I'm bit sure when they will come into effect but I'm sure you can find out on the apprenticeship website.

MoneyBelt_2

Hi there,
Have you tried Vision 2 Learn ?
They do free Level 2 NVQ's in Business Admin.
It's doesn't matter if you have a Degree or Master etc
They are free.

marcarm

Funding is available if it is in a different sector than the quals you already have.

The main issue is your age, there is no funding for over 24's, these have to funded with by yourself or your employer. You can get an advanced learning loan which is paid straight to the provider and works in a similar way to a student loan.

Best thing is to talk to a provider and they should be able to tell you what the options are.

I have worked for several providers, which part of the country are you in? I might be able to put you in touch with someone.

saintjammyswine

Agree with above. First steps would be talk to your local FE College about your options both in terms of funding and courses/apprenticeships available. Also you should register at National Apprenticeship Service www.apprenticeships.org.uk where you can search for vacancies and get online advice.

fufu_banterwaite

Also it is 'apprenticeships'

Sncjw

Hi I have been invited for an interview for one of the ones I have applied for. I got an email today and I have been told it's for Wednesday short notice as it says they are doing interviews from the 30th.

Any tips please I had an interview for 4 years.