For new school leavers, applying for an apprenticeship for the first time can be confusing because trying to get to grips with the different words used to describe the different apprenticeships is somewhat difficult. One thing you need to consider when applying is. What do the different apprenticeship levels mean?
Understanding this will be an important factor in your decision. You need to know the apprenticeship you’re about to apply for is the correct path for your career. Additionally, not knowing what the different types mean makes it harder to decide whether you meet the entry conditions.
In this post, I will outline what the different types of apprenticeship levels mean.
Apprenticeship Levels
LEVEL 2 – INTERMEDIATE APPRENTICESHIP
A level 2 apprenticeship is frequently appertained to as an intermediate level apprenticeship. Level 2 is usually agreed to be the original or 5 GCSE passes.
This is the lowest apprenticeship level available. There are generally no eligibility criteria for applying. Still, you’ll need to demonstrate you have the capability to complete the course. You’ll need to be over 16 years old to be suitable to apply.
Companies will also be looking to see commitment towards the course to make you an offer after your apprenticeship.
LEVEL 3 – ADVANCED APPRENTICESHIP
A level 3 apprenticeship is also known as an advanced apprenticeship. A level 3 is the same as 2 passing grades at A -Level( C grades ).
Level 3 is a step up from a level 2 apprenticeship. This is because to be considered for a level 3 apprenticeship; employers will usually scout for an individual who has completed a level 2 apprenticeship or has 5 passes at GCSE( C grades or Level 5s).
LEVEL 4 – HIGHER APPRENTICESHIP
A level 4 apprenticeship is the same as a foundation degree, an Advanced National Certificate( HNC), or the first year of an undergraduate degree. Higher apprenticeships start at level 4.
The conditions for a level 4 apprenticeship are typically tougher than those at level 3.
The Conditions are generally:
- Completed an advanced apprenticeship.
- Hold a level 3 NVQ/ SVQ qualification.
- Have a BTEC National qualification.
- 2 A-level passes
Employers may also need 5 passes at GCSE at grade A-C( 9- 4 on the new scale). As with the other levels, the criteria will differ depending on the employer.
LEVEL 5 – HIGHER APPRENTICESHIP
Level 5 apprenticeships are another type of Higher Apprenticeship but is closer to a full bachelor’s
The criteria for a level 5 apprenticeship will be analogous to that of a level 4. Still, as this is a more advanced course, it isn’t unusual to see more specific conditions from employers. For instance, for an IT apprenticeship, a company may ask you for a grade C at A-Level at the minimum in ICT alongside other conditions.
LEVEL 6 AND LEVEL 7 – DEGREE APPRENTICESHIP
Degree apprenticeships are new types of courses offered by universities. The level 6 apprenticeship gives candidates a chance to gain a full bachelor’s degree. Level 7 is the same as gaining a master’s degree in your chosen subject.
As these are demanding courses. It’s common to see strict conditions from employers for these apprenticeships. You’ll nearly need previous qualifications, which will need to be transmittable to the apprenticeship in some way.
FAQS
one to five years
Your Level 4 (Higher) Apprenticeship can take anywhere from one to five years for you to complete. As an apprentice, you’ll spend most of your time working with an employer on projects which are directly related to the topics included in your apprenticeship.
Are level 5 apprenticeships difficult? Working towards a level 5 qualification on its own can be challenging as it will likely be the highest level of qualification you’ve worked towards, regardless of the fact you’ll also have a full-time job!
