Why pick an Apprenticeship?
Across the UK, there are currently over 700
Apprentices in the metals industry, and many of these will go on to
fill key positions of responsibility in companies.
The value of the Apprenticeship to young
people is that it is designed by employers in the industry, so it
is directly relevant to the actual job roles available and is
recognised by employers. In fact, over 90% of Apprentices go on to
achieve full-time permanent employment either during or directly
after completion of their apprenticeship. Most find they are
commanding competitive salaries (well above average in UK
industry), as well as taking on positions of responsibility and
becoming respected members of their company.
What do
employers really think about apprenticeships?
You might be surprised to hear that many
employers prefer recruiting young people into Apprenticeships than
recruiting people at graduate level, and believe that they progress
faster within companies:
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"We constantly find that
apprentices are making a real different to the company, and are
showing impressive innovation and business acumen - which is
positively encouraged within the apprenticeship programme."
Stephen Tilsley, Managing Director,
Metsec
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| "Corus (formerly British
Steel) used to run all its training in-house through
apprenticeships, but over the years we've tried many different ways
of training new employees whilst reducing the amount of resource we
had to channel in. I believe as a business, we've lost because of
this. The Apprenticeship now fills this gap and it clearly works
for our business and for the young people who enter Corus via this
route."
Mick Hood, HR Manager, Corus Engineering
Steels
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"Our apprentices have shown
real potential to go on to become team leaders and supervisors and
have regularly been involved in improvement projects. We've found
they have the enthusiasm and motivation to want to make an impact
in the organisation."
Dipak Patel, Training Officer, William King
Ltd
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How can I become an
Apprentice?
Companies advertise Apprenticeship vacancies in
a variety of places. A good starting point is to register
yourselves with our Academy. You could also check with you local
careers service and job centre, as well as looking out for
advertisements in your local press.
Once you have found a vacancy you are interested
in, you will need to complete an application form. Companies will
usually conduct interviews with all prospective candidates. The
Metskill Academy Team can offer you advice on interview techniques
and preparation. For details, contact Peter Hill on 0114 244
6833.
What
qualifications do I need?
There are no set minimum entry
requirements for the Apprenticeship, although most employers will
look for a good standard of maths and English, and evidence of good
personal skills and a positive, committed attitude. For the
Advanced route, at least 4 GCSE passes at grade C or above
(including maths and English), would usually be
expected.
How long does
an Apprenticeship take?
It usually takes around two years to
complete the Apprenticeship and three to four years to complete an
Advanced Apprenticeship.
Will I be
employed by my company?
Apprentices usually have employed status
with their company from day one.
What about
salary and holidays?
As an Apprentice, you would be paid the standard
rate for your job, and should receive the normal company holiday
entitlement and any other bonuses (e.g. pensions or
healthcare).
If you are a Foundation Apprentice who does not
yet have employed status, you will be paid a weekly wage based on
nationally recommended guidelines for trainees, together with a set
holiday entitlement.
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