What do Apprenticeships offer you as the Trainees?

They are an opportunity for you to get into a working environment, gain valuable experience and a qualification whilst earning a wage. At the same time you participate in a structured training programme., specific to your needs, gaining the knowledge and experience to take your first steps on the ladder to employment.

What does it involve and what qualifications will I get?

You will work towards a variety of qualifications known as an Apprenticeship Framework, depending on your occupational area. This will include an NVQ, a Diploma / Technical Certificate and Functional Skills.

The Diploma / Technical Certificate is the underpinning knowledge of the subject and is studied on the day you attend College. This will add to the quality of the qualification and ensures that you have the appropriate knowledge as well as experience to carry out your role in the workplace.

Functional Skills / Key Skills if applicable will be delivered in College to enhance your communication, ICT and number skills in the workplace. If you have GCSE at level A to C in Maths and English, you can be exempted from this part of the apprenticeship framework, but we will need copies of your GCSE certificates.

NVQs are achieved at work, through observation and assessment whilst undertaking your daily duties. On completion of all of the parts, you will be awarded an Apprenticeship Framework Certificate.

How long does it take?

Depending on age and experience, an Apprenticeship will normally take 2 years for a Level 2 qualification and a further 1 year to 1½ years for an Advanced Apprenticeship at Level 3, depending on the trade. Most of your practical skills will be developed in the workplace and the technical side will be taught at College on a day release course.

Some occupations carry additional elements to the framework that are sector specific.

If I am employed, what happens next?

You will need to be employed in the relevant industry and will need to complete an Apprenticeship Application Form and either email it to us at info@gbct.co.uk or print and return it to:

GBCT, 306 Portland Road, Hove BN3 5LP

If I am not employed, what happens next?

If you have not yet found an employer, you will still need to fill in an application form, but we will not be able to sign you up until you start suitable employment. We will do everything we can to help you find suitable employment but it is up to you to find relevant employment.

We will provide you with:

• Pre-entry advice to enable you to select a course which meets your needs
• An Individual Learning Plan for every learner following an apprenticeship course
• Detailed modules / units to be studied on your course
• An introduction detailing evidence required from the workplace
• Prompt feedback on assessment results
• Additional support for conditions which may impede your learning
• Regular reviews of your progress at intervals of not more that 12 weeks