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- What is an apprenticeship?
An apprenticeship is a full-time work-based learning programme that combines accredited learning with paid work and is suitable for anyone of working age. It gives you the opportunity to study towards a nationally recognised qualification (fully paid for by the council), whilst building skills and experience in an exciting new career. By the end of the programme you will have acquired the skills, knowledge and experiences, as well as a relevant qualification, to perform a skilled role and build a successful career
Key benefits of apprenticeships:
- earn a salary
- get paid holidays
- receive training
- gain qualifications
- learn job-specific skills
- an opportunity to start a new career.
- What do the different levels of apprenticeships mean?
- Intermediate: Level 2 (GCSE equivalent).
- Advanced: Level 3 (A-level equivalent).
- Higher: Levels 4, 5, 6 and 7 (Foundation degree equivalent and above).
- Degree: Levels 6 and 7 (Bachelor's or master's degree equivalent).
- How much do you earn on an apprenticeship?
We pay our apprentices the London Living Wage (LLW) which is currently equivalent to £10.75 an hour or £20,179 per year. H&F is committed to our corporate priority of 'building a shared prosperity' therefore we have committed to paying the London Living Wage for all our apprentices.
- Who can apply?
- Hammersmith & Fulham residents.
- Aged 16+.
- Right to work in the UK and have held this status for the past 3 years.
- Do I need qualifications to apply?
For a majority of our apprenticeships, you do not need qualifications to apply.
However, some apprenticeships may require you to have previous qualifications which will be stated in the advert and job description.
- How long is an apprenticeship for?
The minimum duration of an apprenticeship is 12 months and the maximum duration is 5 or 6 years.
The apprenticeship length depends on the length of the associated training course range from 12 months to 6 years for some degree/higher level apprenticeships.
- Who delivers the apprenticeship training?
Training will be delivered by government approved apprenticeship training providers contracted by the council. Where possible, the council will strive to get training providers that are local, accessible and provide high quality training.
- Can apprenticeships work part-time?
Completing an apprenticeship part-time is a possibility at a minimum of 16 hours per week. However, it will be up to the discretion of the training provider that delivers the apprenticeship course as to whether they can accommodate part-time learners, so we cannot guarantee that all apprenticeships could be done part time.
Part time apprenticeships would extend the apprenticeship duration on a pro rata basis. For example, on a 12 month apprenticeship working 36 hours a week, if this would be done part time for 18 hours a week then the duration would be 24 months.
The time commitment for apprenticeship study will still be 20% of your weekly contracted hours, regardless of whether you are full or part time.
- Will I get a job afterwards?
There is no guarantee of a job following your apprenticeship however, we will always look to give you the preparation and tools to find employment either within the council or another organisation.
- How do I apply?
If you are interested in the apprenticeships, you should consider which course and level of qualification is best suited to your career aspirations and level of prior education. You can also sign up to our Talent Community so we can keep you up to date with apprenticeship opportunities that match your interests.
- Do background checks apply to apprenticeships?
Some apprentice posts require candidates to undergo background checks with the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS, previously known as CRB) which will reveal criminal records, including convictions which are 'spent'. The check is necessary as some posts involve dealing with or having access to children or vulnerable adults. This does not mean that applicants with a criminal record may not be employed – but you should declare any convictions in your application.