Levels of apprenticeships

What levels of apprenticeship are there?

There are different levels of apprenticeship that training providers offer. The most common are the Level 2 and 3 apprenticeships but some also offer Level 4.

• Level 2 Apprenticeship – equivalent to five A to C GCSE grades A - C
• Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship – equivalent to two A level passes grades A - C
• Level 4 Higher Apprenticeship

Apprenticeships

An apprenticeship is equivalent to an NVQ level 2 standard qualification and the training programme usually lasts for between 12 and 18 months although some apprentices progress more quickly. Somebody with an Apprenticeship standard qualification could work in a charity as an administration assistant, database administrator or marketing co-ordinator.

Advanced Apprenticeships

An Advanced Apprenticeship develops the learner’s skills at NVQ Level 3 standard as potential supervisors and skilled youth workers. The training programme for Advanced Apprenticeships usually lasts between 18 and 24 months but some advanced apprentices complete more quickly, particularly those who have already done a Level 2 Apprenticeship.

Higher Apprenticeships

Higher Apprenticeships develop skills at NVQ Level 4 and, in some cases, apprentices gain a knowledge-based qualification such as a Foundation degree. They may take up to three years to complete and train learners to team leader and manager level.