Meet Lee, 32, our professional development manager at Riverside. Lee is responsible for supporting you on your career and development journey. He works with our diverse and skilled colleagues and is looking to create more development opportunities for colleagues and our communities. If you want to get in touch and have a chat with Lee about your career and the opportunities we have available, please get in touch.
What is an apprenticeship?
An apprenticeship is where you are employed for 30 hours and over whilst being paid for your work, you are developing skills, knowledge and behaviours in your chosen sector. Plus you are gaining excellent work experience and challenging yourself to improve.
I thought they were only available to those aged 16-25?
Apprenticeship opportunities are available to everyone over 16. Recent changes in funding has made it easier to enable employers to offer exciting opportunities to new and existing employees. This means that anyone over 16 looking for their first job, a career change or anyone wanting to upskill themselves can now access specific development to enhance their vocational skills.
Can I do an apprenticeship is I have a degree?
Absolutely. Apprenticeships are available from level two to level seven. Meaning you can access an apprenticeship regardless – whether you wish to retrain in a new sector or you want to continue your development. You can complete an apprenticeship in any subject which is significantly different to any qualifications you may already have. Perfect for a change in career.
What are the benefits of an apprenticeship?
There are lots. Firstly you’ll be able to earn money whilst you are studying and developing your career. You are able to develop in the workplace, meaning you gain first-hand experience of doing the job rather than just learning about it.
Can I still do an apprenticeship if I already have a job?
Absolutely. An apprenticeship is no longer just in the title. It is a development route for those already in full-time employment. You just need to ask your learning and development team for more information.
What time of year can I start?
There are little or no restrictions on when you can enrol onto an apprenticeship. Most apprenticeship programmes offer a roll on, roll off system. There are a few apprenticeships that do align with the academic year. Making apprenticeships flexible and suitable for when you are ready to develop yourself.
Do I have to pay anything to become an apprentice?
No, your employer will be able to fund your apprenticeship programme.
What are the entry requirements?
For most entry level apprenticeships there are no entry requirements. If you are studying a higher level apprenticeship or a specific subject there may be certain requirements you need to demonstrate before you start.
All apprenticeships require you to undergo an initial assessment and you will need to complete functional skills in maths and English is not already exempt.
What apprenticeship opportunities are available at Riverside?
We currently have opportunities in housing, finance, IT and customer service – to name just a few. Search our current vacancies or contact us to find out more.
What would you’re advice be to anyone considering an apprenticeship?
It is a great route into the wonderful world of work. It is rewarding and can lead to amazing future career opportunities. If you’re considering developing your skills and knowledge, why not get paid for learning and exploring your chosen specialism?