What is an apprenticeship?

An apprenticeship is a real job where the employee works alongside experienced staff while completing training.

Apprentices:

• Earn a wage and have employee rights
• Gain hands-on experience in the workplace
• Spend part of their time completing structured training
• Achieve a nationally recognised qualification

Training is typically delivered by a college, university or approved training provider, alongside day-to-day work.

Why apprenticeships matter for businesses

Apprenticeships support businesses to:

• Develop new talent and address skills gaps
• Upskill existing employees
• Improve productivity and retention
• Build a pipeline of skilled staff

They are available across a wide range of sectors including construction, health, engineering, digital, business services and more.

Apprenticeship levels

Apprenticeships are available at different levels, depending on the role and level of responsibility:

• Level 2 (Intermediate) – equivalent to GCSEs
• Level 3 (Advanced) – equivalent to A levels
• Levels 4–5 (Higher) – equivalent to foundation degree
• Levels 6–7 (Degree) – equivalent to bachelor’s or master’s degree

This flexibility allows businesses to recruit at entry level or develop higher-level skills within their workforce.

Finding apprenticeships and training

You can explore available apprenticeships and training providers using national and local services:

• Find an apprenticeship vacancies
  Search and apply for live apprenticeship opportunities across England
• Explore apprenticeships and resources
  Access guidance for employers, training and support

Local support in Kent and Medway

There is strong local support available to help businesses understand and access apprenticeships.

KentChoices

A local platform to explore apprenticeships, courses and training providers

Search apprenticeships and opportunities in Kent and Medway

Medway Council Apprenticeship Advice Service

Provides tailored support for employers, including recruitment, funding and training guidance

Get apprenticeship advice and support in Medway

Kent Training and Apprenticeships

A local provider offering a range of apprenticeship programmes and workforce training

Explore training and apprenticeship programmes

A flexible and accessible route

Apprenticeships are open to people aged 16 and over, with no upper age limit. They can be used to:

• Recruit new staff
• Retrain employees
• Support career progression
• Build future workforce skills

They typically last between 8 months and several years, depending on the level and role.