Apprenticeships with DBC Training

Is an Apprenticeship right for you?

Becoming an apprentice can be a smart move for anyone looking to gain practical experience in a particular field or industry. By working alongside experienced professionals, you can learn the ins and outs of a business while developing your own skills and expertise.

Who are Apprenticeships suitable for?

Apprenticeships can be a great fit for individuals seeking an alternative to university, or those who want to kickstart their careers right away with a real job and employer. If you prefer hands-on learning and gaining practical experience, an apprenticeship could be a suitable choice. By undertaking an apprenticeship, you’ll gain valuable work experience and knowledge of your chosen industry, which can help you develop the skills necessary for a successful career.

How do Apprenticeships work?

An Apprenticeship will allow you to work alongside experienced staff, learning from their expertise and gaining practical experience whilst being supported by a team of professionals. The aim of an apprenticeship is to gain job-specific skills that will help you progress in your chosen field. Whilst doing so, as an apprentice you will be paid a wage, which means you can earn money while you learn. Apprentices are also entitled to holiday pay. Alongside work experience, you’ll be studying towards a related qualification, typically for one day a week. This will help you develop your knowledge and skills, and provide you with a recognised qualification that can be used to further your career.

Finding the right course for you

Information, Advice and Guidance

At DBC we have a dedicated recruitment team who are experts in all things apprenticeships! They will provide help and guidance from the very beginning of your application, right up to your interview, and support you with everything in between!

We will show you how to search and apply for your ideal apprenticeship and how to complete an application form that stands out from the rest. We will also show you how to write a brilliant CV and cover letter, provide you with interview tips, support and advice, and we’ll even help you to increase your confidence for interviews.

Whatever questions you may have about apprenticeships, we are here to answer them.

Speak to our team today

Book your IAG Appointment

If you would like to arrange a tailored 1 to 1 IAG appointment with a member of the DBC Training team please contact us today to kickstart your journey.

What grades do I need to start an Apprenticeship?

Entry Requirements

Typically, to qualify for a level 2 apprenticeship, you need a GCSE grade 3 or equivalent in maths and English. For a level 3 apprenticeship, a GCSE grade 4 or equivalent is usually required.

However, there are exceptions to these requirements. If you don’t meet the criteria, we offer the option to enroll you in the Functional Skills Level 2 course, which can be completed alongside your apprenticeship.

So, even if you don’t meet the requirements for a specific apprenticeship vacancy that interests you, don’t hesitate to apply. It’s always worthwhile to inquire if you would still be eligible by completing the Functional Skills alongside the apprenticeship.

Frequently asked questions

For learners

An apprenticeship is a work-based training program that combines practical experience with structured learning. Whether you’re a young person entering the workplace for the first time, or an experienced manager looking to progress in your career, an apprenticeship can benefit your career by providing hands-on training, allowing you to earn while you learn, and gaining valuable qualifications and experience specific to your chosen industry.

No. You have to be a minimum of 16 years old to start an apprenticeship, but there is no upper age limit if you are interested in training in a new career later in life. Many employers are training up existing members of staff through the apprenticeship route to help further their career development.

Many people start on a level 2 apprenticeship and work their way up to a higher or degree apprenticeship. Many employers and training providers will ask for a certain level of numeracy and literacy and may require you to have qualifications or certain experience as part of the entry criteria.

Apprenticeships allow you to earn while you learn. Apprentices under the age of 19 are entitled to the apprentice minimum wage, as a minimum, for the work they do. After the age of 19, or 18 if you have completed your first year of your apprenticeship, you will be entitled to the working National Minimum Wage.

Key steps include researching available apprenticeships, tailoring your CV and cover letter, preparing for interviews, and showcasing your enthusiasm for the industry. Our recruitment team are on-hand to help you navigate the application process successfully.

Apprenticeships provide a mix of on-the-job and off-the-job training, leading to recognised qualifications in your chosen field. You’ll gain practical skills, industry-specific knowledge, and valuable work experience that enhance your employability.

The exact duration varies based on the apprenticeship programme, but it typically ranges from 12 months for a level 2 apprenticeship to two years for a level 5 apprenticeship. We also take into account any prior learning and experience when planning the apprenticeship duration.

Yes, apprentices receive ongoing support throughout their programme. This includes regular progress reviews with a Development Coach, mentorship, guidance from your employer, and resources to help you succeed in your role and complete your apprenticeship successfully.

As an apprentice, you have rights related to wages, working hours, and a safe working environment. You also have responsibilities to actively engage in your training, perform your job duties, and adhere to the terms outlined in your Apprenticeship Agreement.

For employers

An apprenticeship is a work-based training program that combines practical on-the-job experience with structured learning. It benefits your business by providing a cost-effective way to train and develop a skilled workforce tailored to your specific needs.

Anyone in England aged 16 years old and above, whether employed, unemployed, or leaving school. There is no upper age limit.

Apprenticeships are work-based qualifications. The Development Coach will deliver training to the apprentice through teaching sessions face-to-face or virtually and support them in building an apprenticeship portfolio of evidence throughout their programme. An End-Point Assessment is completed to assess the knowledge, skills and behaviours that they have learnt throughout the apprenticeship

You need to make sure there is a genuine job available for a minimum 30 hours per week, with a contract of employment long enough for the apprentice to complete their apprenticeship. It must also allow the apprentice to develop the skills, knowledge and behaviours set within the apprenticeship standard. The commitment from your business involves providing on-the-job training, mentorship, and support to help the apprentice complete their training successfully.

We can help you find suitable apprenticeship candidates through our end-to-end no-cost apprentice recruitment service. Our apprentice recruitment team work with you to create the job description and promote your vacancy via local partners and the National Apprenticeship Service. We also provide candidate shortlisting and interviewing to help find the best talent.

If you pay the apprenticeship levy you can spend this on training and assessing your apprentices. The government will apply a 10% top-up to the funds you have in your account. If you are an employer that doesn’t pay the levy, you pay just 5% towards the cost of training and assessing an apprentice. The government will pay the rest up to the funding band maximum. You must pay them at least the National Minimum Wage rate depending on their age and the year of apprenticeship training they’re in.

There are various financial incentives, including the Apprenticeship Levy for larger businesses and government support schemes. These incentives aim to offset the costs associated with hiring and training apprentices. Check with the government and relevant agencies for the latest information.

The exact duration varies based on the apprenticeship programme, but it typically ranges from one to four years. We also take into account any prior learning and experience when planning the apprenticeship duration.