of our learners would recommend us
of our learners have passed their EPA with a Merit or Distinction
of employers would recommend us
of traineeship learners have developed their careers as a result of the programme
FAQ's
What is an apprenticeship?
An apprenticeship is essentially a set of qualifications called a ‘framework’. Most apprenticeship frameworks follow a standard format that is made up of knowledge qualifications, workplace competency and skills in English, maths and ICT. Find out more about what apprenticeships are here
Why should I do an apprenticeship rather than go to University?
Not everyone feels that the Uni progression path is right for them after completing their GCSE’s. Apprenticeships allow you to gain degree level qualifications just as going to University would with the added benefit of on-the-job training and real first-hand experience. There’s no tuition fee’s to pay and you’ll even earn a wage while undertaking the qualification all while being treated as a full-time employee!
Is there an age limit to do an apprenticeship?
No. There are many beliefs that you can only do an apprenticeship if you are aged 16-18 however this is not the case. Apprenticeships can be completed at any age!
How long does an apprenticeship take?
The length of an apprenticeship can vary depending on prior skills and qualifications you hold as well as what level of apprenticeship you’re undertaking! on average, most of our apprenticeships take between 12 – 18 months to complete.
How many hours a week do I have to work?
In order to pass your apprenticeship, you must work at least 30 hours per week.
How much do apprentices earn?
While working in your apprenticeship, you are entitled to at least the National Minimum Wage for apprentices. This applies to those under 19 and those aged 19 or over who are in their first year (This rate changes when you enter into your second year of an apprenticeship i.e. after 12 months). Many of our employers pay more than the National Minimum Wage rate, however. You can find out more about the NMW rates for apprentices and also holiday entitlement as well as additional help and guidance on the official Government website.
Do I have to pay?
No. All apprenticeship training is free of charge and fully funded for the learner.
Do I need to attend college during the week?
No. There is no need to formally attend college with any of our apprenticeship qualifications. All learning is done in the workplace and through unit work with your dedicated assessor.
Do apprentices have to take exams?
Most assessments take part in the workplace as observations and most of the apprenticeship qualifications are coursework based. However, there may be a requirement for some tests to take place for functional skills (English, maths and ICT) and initial assessments. Don’t worry about any large sports hall exams though!
Can I stay at the company once the apprenticeship is over?
A large majority of our learners do stay on with the same employer, and while there’s no guarantee you’ll be kept on by them, apprentices often go on to work their way up the corporate ladder with further training and promotions.
Can I do an apprenticeship with my current employer?
Definitely! If you are a current employee and yourself or your employer would like to get you started on an apprenticeship, we’d love to get to know your manager and business and help set up the best apprenticeship course for you. Get in touch with us for more details!
Are apprentices entitled to maternity leave?
Of course! Like all employees, apprentices are entitled to Statutory Maternity Leave of 52 weeks with Statutory Maternity Pay for up to 39 weeks.
What is an NVQ?
NVQs are competency-based qualifications meaning they offer proof that you can do a job. NVQs are available in lots of different jobs, from administration to animal care. The qualifications go up to a level 5 so you can start at a level suitable for you and work your way up. National Vocational Qualifications are recognised throughout the UK and are achieved by recording what you do at work.
What is a QCF?
QCF stands for The Qualifications and Credit Framework. Qualifications that use the QCF rules are made up of units and provide flexible ways to get a qualification. Each unit has a credit value which tells you how many credits are awarded when a unit is completed with one credit usually taking you 10 hours of learning. With a mixture of mandatory and optional units, you can build a QCF qualification to suit your individual needs in a particular course, as long as you meet the minimum credit threshold to pass the qualification.
Testimonials
Don’t just take our word for it. Hear about the journeys of some of our apprentices. Get an idea of what to expect from an apprenticeship and how it can help you grow, personally and in the workplace.
“Our experience with Aspiration Training has been a really positive one. Our assessor supported and challenged us throughout the apprenticeship, and empowered us to successfully achieve our qualifications within the allocated timescale.“
