How Can the Government Help Me Get an Apprenticeship?

The government has outlined its intention to expand the national Apprenticeships scheme, increasing the number of vacancies on offer and providing new support for young people who wish to learn a trade. In the past, many prospective apprentices have been deterred by the lack of available positions. There had been little financial help for employers that took on apprentices, and it therefore became difficult to find vacancies.

But increased government support for apprentices and employers looks set to change that situation. Today there is a broad range of help available for those who are looking for a vacancy. So what can the government do for you?

Search Vacancies Online

Your first port of call when searching for an apprenticeship should be the government’s Apprenticeship Vacancy Matching Service. Using this online portal you can find available apprenticeships by keyword or by location – meaning that you can find a vacancy doing what you are interested in, in an area that is convenient for you.

You can also use the site to register your details in order to be informed when suitable vacancies arise. This service is invaluable for prospective apprentices, and can be thought of as your first step towards recruitment.

Mentoring Services

Often, the best way to learn is from someone who has already been through the same process. The government’s Horsesmouth service, also available online through the Apprenticeships website, puts you in touch with individuals that are currently in the apprenticeship scheme or have recently completed it. They can provide personal guidance, and give you pointers on how best to find and apply for a position.

Financial Support

Although there is no government financial support for apprentices, you will earn a wage. The government requires that employers pay their apprentices no less than £95 per week, although the average wage is actually far higher – across the country, the average apprentice is now paid around £170 per week.

It is also worth remembering that apprentices have far better earning prospects in the long-term. It is thought that those who complete an apprenticeship will earn around £100,000 more over the course of their career.

Young Apprenticeships

If you are aged between 14 and 16, you may be able to take advantage of the government’s Young Apprenticeships scheme. This scheme enables you to spend 50 days with an employer, working in a similar way to a conventional apprentice, while continuing to study the regular curriculum at your school. At the end of the scheme you will receive an NVQ or similar qualification.

Those who take part in Young Apprenticeships often get ‘fast-tracked’ into full apprenticeships when they finish school. As a result, they can be a great way to get a foot in the door if you already know what you want to do.

Young Apprenticeships are offered on a school-by-school basis; you should check with your teachers to see whether the scheme is available to you.

Apprenticeships are a great way to get trained in a field in which you are interested, while getting a valuable taste of working life – and, of course, getting paid for it. Make sure you use the full range of support available to help you find a vacancy that is right for you.