What will I study?

An Apprenticeship is not classed as a qualification in its own right but is a set of separate qualifications, called a ‘framework’. Most Apprenticeship frameworks follow a standard format comprising three components. If you want to know more, click on the links below:

• An NVQ or equivalent, (Level 2 for Apprenticeship and Level 3 for Advanced Apprenticeship)
• Key Skills or Functional Skills (from 2011)
• Technical Certificate This is a recognised qualification that provides the underpinning knowledge needed to do a job. It is normally taught within a college setting but can be delivered by the training provider. There are a number of organisations that offer Technical Certificates, such as BTEC, City & Guilds and others. Some Apprenticeships do not require a Technical Certificate because the underpinning knowledge is incorporated into the NVQ (or equivalent).

The relevant Sector Skills Council will specify the Technical Certificate for their Apprenticeships, as well as the appropriate Key Skills and NVQs. For example, the details for engineering Apprenticeships can be found here.

For more information on Function Skills click here.

NB As a consequence of various changes in vocational qualifications and in educational standards, Key Skills are in the process of being replaced by Functional Skills. This process has started and is to be implemented by 2011, but only in England. NVQs are being incorporated into the QCF and some Sector Skills Councils are replacing them by Diplomas. However, whether the qualification is an NVQ or Diploma, they will still be based on National Occupational Standards.

The training provider will provide the knowledge and develop the skills, and the employer will provide the practical experience to put those skills to the test, providing the evidence for completion of the NVQ component. Training can be classroom based, in a workshop or in the workplace, depending on the subject and on the training provider.