Apprenticeships and Advanced Apprenticeships

Apprenticeships and Advanced Apprenticeships are the flagship training programmes of the British government for those students wishing to train in a work based learning format.

They consist of the training of specific skills used in the vocational area of the learner combined with general industry wide skills such as numeracy and communications that are essential in most job roles.

Is an Apprenticeship for me?

Apprenticeships are all about combining work experience with learning. They provide the opportunity to gain a nationally recognised qualification whilst gaining vital experience at work – and you can earn money at the same time!

What does an Apprenticeship Involve?

There are four parts to an apprenticeship:

1. A Technical Certificate

Technical Certificates will help you acquire the underpinning knowledge that is necessary to do your job successfully.  The technical certificate course often requires attendance at College and is usually assessed by written tests (which might be in a multiple choice format) and assignments.

2. A National Vocational Qualification (NVQ)

To achieve an NVQ you will need to complete a portfolio consisting of chosen units in order to show that you can put the knowledge and skills you have learnt into practice.

The Apprenticeship will involve studying for an NVQ at Level 2 whilst the Advanced Apprenticeship requires the NVQ to be at Level 3

3. Key Skills Awards

Key Skills are designed to help you develop vital skills.  They are nationally recognised awards which employers look favourably upon.  Key skills can be taken in Communication, Application of Number, Information Technology, Problem Solving, Working with Others and Improving your Own Learning and Performance.

4. Additional Industry Requirements

In addition to the skills that are needed to perform as a valuable member of the team there are other useful skills that some industries recognise as being desirable in their workforce.

Examples of such added skills may include first aid training, an awareness of employment rights andresponsibilities, and other more industry specific requirements not commonly found in the general workforce.

What Apprenticeships can I study for at The College of Animal Welfare?
The College currently offers Apprenticeships and Advanced Apprenticeships in Animal Care and Customer Service. A new Veterinary Nursing Apprenticeship and Advanced Apprenticeship is expected to become available from August 2006 but in the meantime a temporary framework is available.

Please contact us for more information if you wish to explore the opportunities for undertaking an Apprenticeship with the College of Animal Welfare.

Top of page