Career Opportunities
What are the benefits of gaining experience while at school?
By completing work experience in Year 12 or 13, you can:
- talk about it in your personal statement for getting into university
- use it to stand out from your peers who haven't got any experience
- make industry contacts that may prove helpful throughout your career
- see it as a chance to explore a profession you're interested in
- ask the company about any internships available in future
- view it as the perfect introduction to doing an apprenticeship
- take this opportunity to develop the skills employers are looking for.
Which employers offer Year 12 work experience?
Work placements are available across a range of industries, but they are most popular in the following areas:
- accountancy
- banking
- engineering
- finance
- law
- psychology
- science
- technology.
Many of the leading recruiters that run graduate schemes also offer early careers programmes for school leavers and above. This includes everything from degree apprenticeships to work experience for those still studying their A-levels.
Apprenticeships
What Are Apprenticeships?
Apprenticeships combine work with training, allowing you to earn while you learn and gain nationally recognised qualifications. Typically, you might work four days a week and study at a further education (FE) college, designated training centre, or university on the fifth day.
Degree Apprenticeships
Over 50 national universities offer a variety of degree apprenticeships.
Duration and Benefits
Apprenticeships can last from one to five years, depending on the qualification level and job. They provide valuable work-related skills and qualifications, making you highly employable. While there's no job guarantee at the end, many apprentices secure employment with their apprenticeship provider or other employers.
Progression and Earning Potential
Apprenticeships offer excellent progression opportunities and can significantly boost your future earning potential.
How to Apply
To apply for an apprenticeship, register on gov.uk/apply-apprenticeship. You can search by job role, location, and apprenticeship type. Also, check company websites for direct applications. The Gloucestershire College Apprenticeship Team can assist you in securing an apprenticeship. Visit their website at gloscol.ac.uk for more information.
Entry Requirements
To enter a higher or degree apprenticeship, you need a level 3 qualification such as A-levels, a BTEC Diploma, or an NVQ. Additionally, a level 2 qualification like an intermediate apprenticeship or five good GCSE passes (grades 4–9) is required.
Apprenticeship Levels Explained
- Intermediate Apprenticeships: Level 2 qualifications, equivalent to GCSE passes (grades 4–9).
- Advanced Apprenticeships: Level 3 qualifications, equivalent to A-level passes.
- Higher Apprenticeships: Lead to qualifications at levels 4 and 5, equivalent to a higher education certificate, diploma, or foundation degree.
- Degree Apprenticeships: Involve gaining a university degree while you work (level 6) or above (level 7, equivalent to a master’s degree).
Types of Apprenticeships Apprenticeships are available in various career sectors. Visit gov.uk/apply-apprenticeship to explore current vacancies.
Apprenticeship Wages As of April 2018, the national minimum wage (NMW) for apprentices aged 16–18 and those aged 19 and over in their first year is £3.70 per hour. After the first year, apprentices aged over 19 are entitled to the NMW for their age group.
Useful Links
The Complete Guide to HIGHER AND DEGREE APPRENTICESHIPS
UCAS Apprenticeship Search
Skills for Careers (Department for Education)
Click on the link below to find out more about the top 100 available Apprenticeships available, including links to apply online.