How do I become an Apprentice?

It may not be easy to get into an Apprenticeship. You need to have a number of things:

• The right qualifications.
• The right age - ideally 16-18. This is because there is less funding available from the LSC for those who are older.
• An employer.
• A training provider.
• An aptitude for the particular profession - this may be tested by the training provider.

The first thing to do if you want to find an Apprenticeship is to register on the new website (NAVMS) where you will find a database of vacancies. One advantage of registering on the site is that, from time to time, they will send you a list of local vacancies to your e-mail address.

Many training providers have lists of vacancies for apprentices but popular Apprenticeships in, for example, plumbing, may be harder to gain. You can find contact details for training providers in your area by clicking on the map under Regional Information. You will then need to scroll down to find the links for the on-line prospectus for your local area. Your local Connexions office may also have a list of vacancies. Many employers advertise for new apprentices in local or national newspapers.

If none of these routes enable you to find a vacancy, you may have to resort to phoning up or writing to potential employers.

Click here for more help on how to contact potential employers.

Click here for help on finding and applying for jobs and here for help on writing CVs.