Are you thinking about doing an apprenticeship? Perhaps you are about to leave school and trying to decide what’s next, currently out of work and looking to launch a career, or considering a career change. Apprenticeships can be enjoyable, rewarding, and an incredible learning experience, not to mention looking great on your CV. They are perfect for anyone who prefers to learn by doing.
An apprenticeship is a programme lasting anything from one to six years. During this time you will work for an employer, earning a wage and enjoying all the same rights as any other employee. You will also attend college, university, or another training location for off-the-job training, usually one day per week. At the end of your apprenticeship, you will have a recognised qualification and be ready to go to work in your chosen career.
Deciding to do an apprenticeship is a big step, and you will need all the right information to help you make an informed choice. Read on to discover how you can start to earn as you learn with apprenticeships in the West Midlands.
Now’s a great time to think about apprenticeships
The government has announced a range of incentives to help more companies create and employ more apprentices. Lots of colleges and training providers do a matching service to help you find the right course for you so it’s well worth registering your interest with a local service to see how they can help.
How does it work?
As an apprentice, you’ll combine earning and learning by working for an employer and studying for an industry-relevant qualification. Depending on your level of qualification, you’ll be doing your apprenticeship for at least twelve months.
Where to look for apprenticeships
If you are thinking of becoming an apprentice you can search for opportunities on the government’s Find An Apprenticeship page. You can also find apprenticeship opportunities using our Opportunity Finder.
It’s also a good idea to talk to your local college or training providers so they can tell you more about the employers they work with.
Additional Opportunities
Access opportunities from employers that are committed to the Good Youth Employment Standards using our Opportunity Finder. Use the filters at the top of the page to discover online and in-person events local to you.
Local Resources
For some locations, we are able to provide more local information. Click the links below to discover more helpful resources:
Birmingham
Birmingham Careers Service is a free and friendly support service providing careers information, advice and guidance to young people aged 16 to 19 who are not in education, employment or training (NEET). If a young person has a learning difficulty and/or disability then we can help them until they are 25. They are part of Birmingham City Council and work alongside other local services.
Birmingham Adult Education Service
Coventry
Coventry City Council Job Shop
Dudley
Dudley MBC Apprenticeship Academy
Sandwell
Sandwell Council’s Employment Skills Team
Apprenticeship Works – West Bromich
Solihull
Solihull Youth Employment Promise – for young people aged 16-29, who live in Solihull and are looking for employment, education or training. Email for more information.
Walsall
Wolverhampton
Need help with travel expenses?
You could get free or cheaper travel to work (including apprenticeships) if you’re:
- Starting a new job after being unemployed or made redundant
- Increasing your hours to 16 or more per week in a job you already have
- Paying an adult fare
You must be:
- Earning £30,000 a year or less OR
- Have been claiming unemployment benefit
