Which apprenticeship level is right for you?

In England, there are currently four levels of apprenticeship: intermediate, advanced, higher and degree. Find out which apprenticeship level is the best for you. Who can start higher or degree level apprenticeships?

They all involve a work-based learning programme and lead to nationally recognised certification.

There is a lot of confusion about what is the right level for individuals to begin their apprenticeship journey. Many people assume that if they have an a-level qualification, or a degree, they are eligible for a higher level apprenticeship. However, this is not always the case. 

Apprenticeships offer an excellent way for individuals to gain valuable experience in their chosen field and start a career. Depending on a person’s prior experience, applicants may be able to start at a higher level.

If an individual has significant work experience in a related field, then they might be able to start a higher level apprenticeship. But if they want to do an apprenticeship in a field that they have no experience in, then they will probably have to start at a lower level. 

If someone lacks any related prior experience then they might have to start out with an intermediate or advanced apprenticeship. As they will learn the basics of their chosen profession and get acquainted with its job duties.

If someone with significant and relevant work experience, who has completed A-Levels or a BTEC Level 3 then wants to apply for an apprenticeship in a higher apprenticeship in this area, they may be eligible because they have the qualifications and experience that are needed for this level of apprenticeship.

However, if a level 3 student wants to do a Higher Level Cyber Security Apprenticeship (for example) but has no previous experience of this job area, they are likely to have to start at the Advanced Apprenticeship (Level 3) level to gain the specific job sector skills.

When deciding on what level is right for you. You need to consider the following:

• Previous qualifications
• Previous experience 

The great thing about an apprenticeship is that it combines on-the-job and off-the job-training. This enables the apprentice to gather the essential knowledge, skills and behaviours to become occupationally competent in their role.

Learning is not merely a process of absorbing facts and figures. The ability to apply theoretical knowledge in practical scenarios is an important skill that can only be developed with experience. While there is undoubtedly much to be gained from academic books, online courses or lectures, there is often no substitute for hands-on practice. 

The confidence we gain from successfully completing a task are often more powerful than simply understanding a concept from the theory alone. When individuals have both theoretical understanding and practical instruction, they can not only understand new concepts, but also use them effectively.

In most cases, the most suitable option for school, college and university leavers are intermediate (level 2) or advanced apprenticeships (level 3). As this will enable them to gain experience in the role via on-the-job training. Whilst developing the knowledge as part of their course.

An advanced apprenticeship is an excellent foundation for those looking to develop a successful career in a variety of industries. An apprentice who has completed this level of training has already gained valuable skills and knowledge in their field. They are now well-prepared for the next step in their professional development. 

Once an apprenticeship is complete, apprentices can choose to continue along the same path by advancing onto higher or degree apprenticeships. Both of these pathways allow apprentices access to more specialized training, up to degree-level, depending on what route they select. 

So there are a few things to consider when making your decision on what level apprenticeship to choose. If you need more help or want to discuss this in more detail then please get in touch with HBTC. We will be able to talk through the options and look at the opportunities available for you.

You can check out our apprenticeship vacancies here.

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