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Apprenticeship levels explained
Digital apprenticeships for different levels
Digital apprenticeships for different levels
Apprenticeship levels: which is right for you?
Apprenticeship levels are based on their education level. Typically, intermediate Apprenticeships start at Level 2, which is equivalent to GCSE grades A*-C. Then there are Advanced Level 3 Apprenticeships which are equal to passing 2 A Levels. Levels 4, 5, 6, and 7 are all considered Higher Apprenticeship and are equivalent to completing a foundation degree, bachelor’s degree, and master’s degree.
Apprenticeship levels explained
Intermediate level 2 apprenticeships explained
Entry requirements
To apply to an intermediate level apprenticeship (Level 2) you will need to be above the age of 16 and no longer in education.
What are they?
Intermediate Apprenticeships are the first level of Apprenticeships and these are equivalent to level 2. It’s the most popular level with around 301,000 people starting an Intermediate Apprenticeship in 2010/2011.
Intermediate Apprenticeships are suited to employers who have either a very basic IT role, and/or the Apprentice has an interest in a career in IT but does not have prior IT qualifications and also experience, or the qualifications to enrol on one of our advanced level Apprenticeships. According to a report by the Centre for Economics and Business Research, people with an intermediate level Apprenticeship earn on average between £48,000 and £74,000 over the course of their career, than those without.
Advanced level 3 apprenticeships explained
Entry requirements
To apply to an intermediate level apprenticeship (Level 2) you will need to be above the age of 16 and no longer in education.
What are they?
Advanced Apprenticeships are a step above intermediate apprenticeships and also these are equivalent to level 3. It’s a chance to access great training, develop skills and also gain qualifications whilst working for an employer. Most of the apprenticeships that NowSkills offers are at the advanced level. Advanced apprenticeships are aimed at people with some experience in IT, but have no formal qualifications at level 3 or higher, or no work experience. Research shows that people with an advanced level apprenticeship earn on average between £77,000 and £117,000 over the course of their career than those without.
Higher level 4 apprenticeships explained
Entry requirements
For a higher level apprenticeship (4,5,6), you’ll usually need at least five GCSEs graded from 9-4, as well as some Level 3 qualifications in relevant subjects.
What are they?
Higher apprenticeships work in the same way as intermediate and also advanced level apprenticeships, but they are equivalent to a foundation degree. Because of the high level they are at, higher apprenticeships are for people with a lot of experience in their field, but no formal qualifications. According to the same research, those who have a higher apprenticeship earn, over their career, £150,000+ more than those without – comparable to university graduates.
Degree apprenticeships explained
For a degree-level apprenticeship (7), you will need at least 5 GCSEs graded 9-4 along sides higher education qualifications. You will also require prior work experience.
Traineeships
Not quite ready for an apprenticeship or job? Traineeships are open to those aged 16-24 and consist of a high-quality work placement with an employer, work preparation training, and English and maths for those who have not yet achieved a GCSE Grade A* – C or equivalent.
Visit GOV.UK and search ‘traineeships’ for more information or to apply for traineeship opportunities. If you need help with your apprenticeship application or professional advice on making the right choices, visit nationalcareersservice.direct.gov.uk for a web-chat with an adviser or call 0800 100 900.
