Modern Apprenticeships

Engineering companies in all parts of Scotland are recruiting apprentices now and throughout 2010 to secure the highly skilled people they need for the long-term future of the industry. If you are looking for a rewarding career with meaningful qualifications and good prospects then this is for you.

What is an Apprenticeship?

As an apprentice you will be employed to undertake education and training within a company that prepares you for progression within your chosen career. You learn as you work. This usually means you will go to a Further Education College and/or Training Centre for a day a week or for longer periods called block release. This, combined with training in-the-job in the company, provides the skills and knowledge that you will use in your future career.

What kind of Apprenticeships are on offer?

Companies are mainly offering craft and technician apprenticeships. But what do these terms mean?

Craft

Craftsmen and women apply a wide range of skills and knowledge to their work, with the minimum of direction and supervision.

Their ability to read engineering drawings and interpret instructions enables them to convert ideas and designs into products.

Technician

Technicians have to be able to make decisions of a technical nature based on their own experience and accept personal responsibility for the work they undertake.

This may be associated with existing products or processes or may be related to the development of new ideas and methods. They have to work closely with other departments and be able to communicate their ideas persuasively.

Are all Apprenticeships the same?

No. Apprenticeships differ from company to company according to the type of career that you are being trained for. However, a Modern Engineering Apprenticeship follows a prescribed framework that includes SVQ’s and core skills. Other types of apprenticeships can vary and you will need to ask the company for details at the interview.

What entry qualificatinos do I need?

These are stated by the recruiting company and can vary significantly so look out for them when you read the advertisements in this newspaper. As a general guide, if you want to become a technician you will probably need relevant Highers or good Standard Grade passes in Mathematics, Physics or Chemistry, English and Graphic Communications, Product Design or Technological Studies. For Craft apprenticeships at least Standard Grade passes at Level 3 or above in Mathematics, Science, English and Technical related subjects are likely to be sought by employers.

What qualifications do I get at the end of my Apprenticeship?

The qualification you gain as an apprentice will vary depending on the type of apprenticeship you are undertaking. Most apprenticeships will lead to a Level 3 SVQ as a minimum and some lead to a Level 4 SVQ, both accompanied by appropriate future education certification. Some companies will allow apprentices to go on to Higher Education and take degrees, often in business or in engineering.

Do I get paid?

Yes. Apprentices get paid throughout their apprenticeship and how much will depend on the company you work for, but you can expect around £80-£100+ per week to start with and this will increase throughout your apprenticeship to whatever the skilled job rate is that you are training for.

When will my Apprenticeship start?

There is no fixed common starting date. The company will agree the start date with you.

How long does it last?

Modern Apprenticeships in the engineering industry enable you to progress as quickly as you are able. They usually take between 3-4 years to complete, depending upon your ability and the nature of the apprenticeship. However, some companies still offer time-served apprenticeships which vary in training content and duration.