An apprenticeship is a system of training that is done on-the-job. An apprentice works for an employer who helps the apprentice learn their trade. In most cases the apprentice agrees to continue working for the employer for an agreed period of time after their training.
~~ careeronestop.orgApprenticeship is a combination of on-the-job training and related instruction in which workers learn the practical and theoretical aspects of a highly skilled occupation. Apprenticeship programs can be sponsored by individual employers, joint employer and labor groups, and/or employer associations.
~ dol.gov
Seeking an internship? Consider it looking for a job, there is little if any difference when looking for an intern position or looking for a full time paid job.
According to City & Guilds “81% of apprenticeship employers agree that apprentices boost productivity. And, 60% of employers value apprenticeships over graduates for making a difference from day one”
You may be looking for a new job or new career or already employed and looking for further qualifications, apprenticeships can be the way to go as you earn while you learn and acquire the skills you need for a transition or new job. Anyone living in England, over 16 can apply for an Apprenticeship.
The first question that comes from people looking for apprenticeship positions is what does it cost me? According to labor.ny.gov:
“Apprenticeship training is usually offered by the employer at no cost to the apprentice. There may be some rare instances where the apprentice is asked to pay for the total cost of the related instruction. In other cases, the employer may pay for the related instruction but specify that if you leave the program before completion, you must pay back those costs. As a rule, there are no costs to you.”
Steps to seeking apprenticeship
Here are some ways you can speed up on finding your first or next apprenticeship:
1. Know what type of career you want to pursue, if you are unclear about this first crucial step, spend some time with career counselors or go directly to training centers or vacancy matching services which can assist you with narrowing down on the career path that match your aspirations and skill set.
2. There may be apprenticeship centers and training organizations which offer such programs or you can also approach the employers directly if you come to know of, the first step is to know about the program requirements through the advertised opportunities or through the website and be sure you meet the requirements before you send in your application.
3. Brush up your resume and add all relevant skills and experience that you might have related to the field you are applying for. Don’t worry if you don’t have any, there are many training centers which can take in apprentice with little or no prior experience in the field, but it always pays to have a decent resume or portfolio to show.
4. Request an application from the apprenticeship program. Fill and send in all documents requested.
How long does the training last?
It completely depends on your expertise, skill set and the type of apprenticeship you have applied for. It is in best practices to know the details from your employer about all legal and binding issues of an apprenticeship program.