What is an apprenticeship?

An apprenticeship programme provides training for 16-18 year olds, funded by the Skills Funding Agency (SFA). However there is an administration fee.
 

Apprenticeships for adults aged 19 and over are part funded by the SFA and require an employer contribution to support the programme. For details contact enquires@Barnfield.ac.uk or on 01582 569569
 

An apprenticeship is a programme of work-based learning which usually involves a work-based NVQ competence and attendance at college to undertake a technical certificate or underpinning knowledge. Apprentices may be required to study Key Skills, functional usually in literacy, numeracy and information technology. This will be assessed on an individual basis.
 

To achieve the Full Framework Apprenticeship qualification, the apprentice must pass all elements of the Programme, including Key Skills.
 

The NVQ competence based element is assessed by an assessor who will carry out task observations and visit the apprentice regularly at work. The Apprentice is required to produce a portfolio recording all tasks completed which will be assessed during the programme.
 

The underpinning knowledge or Technical Certificate is achieved when the apprentice has passed all the designated tests or demonstrated knowledge. This varies from vocation to vocation. Key Skills are achieved when all exams have been passed and portfolios have been produced to the required standard.
 

Apprenticeship Level 2 

An apprenticeship is recognised as a qualification in its own right which can lead to an Advanced Apprenticeship. Usually a two-year programme, with qualifications equivalent to NVQ Level 2 and Key Skills up to Level 2.
 

Advanced Apprenticeship Level 3 

An Advanced Apprenticeship is a nationally recognised high-level training programme, including NVQ Level 3 and leading to Foundation Degree or further industry training.