Apprenticeships

• Southwark College is an ‘outstanding’ apprenticeship provider with an achievement rate 14.1% above the national average*
• We have excellent relationships with employers across business, construction, hospitality and the creative arts.
• Our campus is easily accessible by train, tube or bus
• Our apprenticeships run all year round, so you don’t need to wait until term-time to get started
• We provide lots of support throughout the process – from finding the right apprenticeship to advising you on your next steps once you’ve completed it
• We’re part of NCG, the UK’s largest college group which has an excellent reputation for delivering high quality apprenticeships

*Subject to National Data published Early 2019

Apprenticeships combine practical training in a job with study, enabling you to gain recognised qualifications and essential skills while working. You will be on a contract of employment with your employer, working at least 30 hours per week, including time spent at college. You will earn at least National Minimum apprentice Wage (£4.15 per hour), with many employers paying more.

Apprenticeships typically last between 1-5 years depending on the level, and it will also take account of your prior skills. Many of our apprentice’s progress either from one Apprenticeship level to another or straight into a full-time position.

Key facts:

• Apprenticeships usually take between one and four years, although this will vary depending on your employer, employment sector and your own skills and ability
• There are three types of apprenticeship:
  • Intermediate – equivalent to 5 GCSE passes
  • Advanced – equivalent to 2 A level passes
  • Higher – can lead to NVQ Level 4 and above, or a foundation degree
• You need to be 16+, living in England and not in full-time education to do an apprenticeship (but you can apply when you’re still at school)
• Apprentices are paid at least the National Minimum Wage for your age
• Minimum working hours are normally 20 hours a week plus one day at college
• You’ll get at least 20 days’ holiday pay a year, plus bank holidays

Everyone on Apprenticeships Connect will also be able to apply to join our Pre-Apprenticeship programme. These funded short courses are delivered in partnership with local employers and will support you to get the knowledge and skills needed to successfully get onto a higher-level Apprenticeship in your chosen industry. Visit our Pre-Apprenticeship page to find out more.