Work-based learning is the term that is used to refer to programmes, such as Traineeships (non-employed route) and Apprenticeships (employed route), that provide you with real-life work experiences whilst applying academic and technical skills to enhance your career opportunities.
With the introduction of All Age Apprenticeships, opportunities are now open to individuals aged 25 and over, offering flexible routes into a wide range of careers regardless of age.
As an apprentice, you’ll be employed full-time while working towards a nationally recognised qualification. Typically, apprentices spend three to four days per week with their employer and attend college one to two days per week to study in the same field as their apprenticeship.
A Higher Level Apprenticeship is a nationally accredited work-based programme similar to traditional apprenticeships but at a higher level (Level 4 or 5). It is designed to meet the needs of employers for higher skill levels and leads to qualifications equivalent to university.
This section offers comprehensive information on apprenticeships, including guidance on securing an employer, responses to frequently asked questions, downloadable forms such as the Employer Response and Details Form and a range of valuable employer resources, including a toolkit and an employer-focused Q&A.
You must:
If you are already employed, you must:
All relevant paperwork should be uploaded to the admissions portal prior to being considered for an apprenticeship, this should include your:
To begin your apprenticeship, you must first secure full-time employment with a suitable company. Here are some practical tips to help:
Gain experience early
Consider working with a suitable employer over the summer months to give you a better insight into the industry in which you are thinking of a career.
Stay safe
Remember to check that you are adequately covered by the employer’s insurance and that you have also received suitable Health and Safety training.
Be proactive
Get on the phone, email or arrange to meet with as many local companies/employers as you can. Remember to have an updated Curriculum Vitae (CV) ready to hand over, post or email to the employers.
Use your network
Ask school careers advisors or contact your local Careers Service for advice and job search and CV support.
Search online
Keep an eye on local newspapers, job sites, social media (like Facebook), and the College’s vacancy page for openings.
Helpful websites for job searches:
www.yell.com - useful for all types of employers
www.thomsonlocal.com - useful for all types of employers.
www.trustmark.org.uk - useful for all trades
www.ratedpeople.com - useful for all trades
www.gumtree.com - useful for joiners
www.aphc.co.uk - useful for plumbers
www.needaplumber.org - useful for plumbers
www.niceic.com - useful for electricians
www.eca.co.uk - useful for electricians
What is an Apprenticeship?
In Northern Ireland the flagship programme for Apprenticeships is known as ApprenticeshipsNI and is funded by the Department for the Economy.
An Apprenticeship is a real job with practical hands on experience, a wage and a chance to train and gain for qualifications while you work.
As an apprentice you are treated just like other employees with a contract of employment, a wage and holiday leave entitlement.
Apprenticeships in NI are currently available at Level 2 and Level 3 and Higher Level Apprenticeships from Level 4 upwards. Currently there are around 150 Level 2 and Level 3 apprenticeships and over 45 Higher Level Apprenticeships to choose from.
Level 2 is the first level and the one which most Apprentices choose. You can either progress from Level 2 to Level 3 or commence at Level 3 depending on your ability and qualifications achieved.
An apprentice who has already gained significant work experience in their occupational area, which could be considered as meeting the requirements of the relevant Level 2 framework, and who also demonstrates the capacity to achieve a Level 3 standard, may seek an exemption from the completion of a Level 2 framework and request direct entry onto a Level 3 framework.
How long does it take to complete an Apprenticeship?
Apprenticeships usually take between 2 and 4 years to complete. This will depend on the type of Apprenticeship and qualifications you are working towards. The duration of the Apprenticeship depends on the course being followed and the ability of the individual Apprentice. As a guide a Level 2 and Level 3 Apprenticeship usually takes around 2 years with some exceptions.
Who can join an Apprenticeship?
• Apprentices must be aged 16 or over. There is no upper age limit, which means you can start an apprenticeship at any stage of your career.
• Potential apprentices can be existing or new employees including graduates.
• An existing employee must be in a new job that requires a substantial amount of learning and skills development.
• A new employee in (or about to take up) a permanent paid employment offer.
• You must be employed by a company that has a base in Northern Ireland and is registered as an employer with HMRC and be contracted to work a minimum of 21 hours per week with one employer.
• Day release to College to undertake directed training must be paid as part of the apprentice’s contracted hours.
• You must have the potential to successfully complete all the requirements of the Level 2 or Level 3 apprenticeship framework.
• You must meet any health requirements (e.g. Colour Vision) specific to the occupation you select e.g Electrical Installation.
• You must have achieved any necessary entry academic qualifications (GCSEs and /or Essential Skills) determined by the relevant sector for the apprenticeship.
• A Graduate is defined as a person who has obtained a degree, a Higher National Diploma, a Diploma in Higher Education, or an equivalent qualification awarded by a recognised University or other Institute of Higher or Further Education. Graduates may only enter ApprenticeshipsNI provision in an occupational area that is unrelated to their qualification subject.
Apprentices from third countries (including EU, EEA and Swiss Nationals)
Third country nationals, including European Union (EU), European Economic Area (EEA) and Swiss Nationals and their family members, are eligible to undertake a Level 2 or Level 3 apprenticeship provided they have a right to live and work in the UK. For example, through;
• Having secured settled status in the UK with the appropriate visa/permit.
• Having indefinite leave to enter or remain in the UK.
• Having been recognised as a refugee by the UK Government, or the spouse or civil partner or
child of a refugee, or having been granted Humanitarian Protection, or having EU Temporary
• Protection with evidence/permit to show their status and eligibility to work in the UK.
• Having secured pre-settled or settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme.
• Acquiring the right to live and work under the UK’s new immigration system.
Legal responsibility for establishing that the apprentice has a right to live and work in the UK rests with the employer
Under the Common Travel Area arrangements, Republic of Ireland (RoI) nationals (including those who continue to reside in the RoI) are eligible to undertake a Level 2 or Level 3 apprenticeship subject to satisfying all other eligibility criteria.
Ineligible Participants
The following are not eligible to enter an ApprenticeshipsNI 2021 funded Level 2 or Level 3 apprenticeship:
• A person taking up, or already in, a self-employment opportunity. This includes apprentices whose employers have taken them on under the Construction Industry (CIS) Scheme.
• A public sector employee (the public sector includes all enterprises and activities owned and/or funded by the government. Employees of charities are excluded from this definition, subject to compliance with 4.12.1.4. Contractors must ensure that public sector employees are not enrolled on the ApprenticeshipsNI 2021 programme).
• A non-EU national who is subject to employment restrictions and/or a time limit on their stay in Northern Ireland at the time of application to enter training (this information can be obtained by checking the client’s passport/visa/permit).
• A person for whom the employer is in receipt of financial support from any other Government Department budget or programme.
• A person following a full-time course of study in either Further or Higher Education.
• A person employed by a company that does not have a base in Northern Ireland or Great Britain.
What is the entry criteria for an Apprenticeship?
If you search for your relevant course on our website, using the course search facility, entry requirements are included within each course specific page.
My child is great with their hands so doesn’t need to complete Level 2 and will be joining at Level 3 but there is no option to apply for Level 3
Apprenticeships start at level 2 except for Civil Engineering and Electrical Installation. You can apply to all our Level 3 courses via our website, search for Level 3.
What qualifications will I gain through an Apprenticeship?
An Apprenticeship is essentially a set of qualifications called Framework developed by sectoral partnerships and relevant industry-led representative bodies. These Frameworks specify the standards which the apprentice must complete. Each framework includes the following basic elements:
Knowledge Based Qualification (KBQ)
Some apprenticeships will include an individual KBQ (also known as a Technical Certificate or a Technical Knowledge Qualification). This includes all the theory and knowledge required and relevant to the practical skills an apprentice will develop in their job role and knowledge of the industry and market.
Competence Based Qualification (CBQ)
To ensure an apprentice is practically competent within their field or job role, an assessment is carried out both College and in the workplace.
Combined Qualification (CQ)
Some apprenticeship frameworks have a CQ, which includes both knowledge based and competence based elements, and covers the requirements of both the CBQ and the KBQ such as plumbing and electrical installation.
Essential Skills
Essential skills must be completed where appropriate to the Apprenticeship framework if the apprentice has not already achieved an exemption of at least a Grade C /4 at GCSE in Application of Number, Communication and ICT.
Employment Rights and Responsibilities (ERR)
It’s important that ERR training empowers apprentices to understand employer and employee rights and responsibilities under Employment Law, and how employment rights can be affected by other legislation. ERR is available via workbooks and Induction modules from the relevant Sector Skills Council or Standard Setting Body.
Additional Employer Requirements (AER)
Depending on where an apprentice is going to work they might need to learn some extra skills. These qualifications usually cover training that’s specific to the area of work, e.g. first aid or health and safety.
What will I get paid?
If you're aged 16 to 19 or in the first year of your apprenticeship, you’re entitled to the apprentice rate. The hourly rate for 1 April 2024 is £6.40. This rate is effective from 1st April 2024 and usually changes each year.
If you're 19 or over and have completed the first year of your apprenticeship, you’re entitled to the National Minimum Wage.
This is the minimum you’ll earn - many employers often pay a lot more and offer their apprentices a competitive salary.
You'll also be entitled to sick pay, any additional benefits your employer offers to its other employees and at least 20 days of paid holiday per year.
What are the key benefits of studying an Apprenticeship?
Earn while you learn
You can avoid student debt since there are no college fees to pay for joining the apprenticeship and you can enjoy the perks of earning while you are learning.
Receive recognised qualifications
Each level of your apprenticeship rewards you with a qualification you can showcase to future employers. The levels are: Level 2 (equivalent to 5 GCSE passes); Level 3 (equivalent to 2 A-Level passes); right the way through to Level 6 (degree level) and Level 7 (masters degree).
Gain independence and respect
Working in a company will improve your employability skills and gain the respect of your co-workers and employer, giving you the confidence you need to carry out your role.
Benefit from ongoing and personalised support
When you begin your apprenticeship you’ll be assigned a Training Support Officer who will work closely with your employer and course lecturers to provide an update on your progress and identify any further support requirements. You will have regular tutorials and your course lecturer will guide you through your course. College staff are available to answer any of your questions at any point and provide you with support tailored to suit your needs; they’ll be on hand whenever you need them.
Gain real work experience
Working life is completely different to being in school or university and an apprenticeship, is a way of easing you into that environment whilst having people around to guide you along the way. Your colleagues will be able to show you the ropes of everyday working life so that you’ll soon fit right in.
Receive discounts
As an apprentice, you’re still classed as a student, meaning you’re entitled to an NUS student discount card. This provides you with money off restaurants, clothing stores, insurance, gym memberships and much more! Find out more about apprenticeships Extra Discount
Discounted Travel Payments and great savings on many well- known shops and big brands
Public transport is a vital link for young people to access education, social activities, medical appointments and visiting family and friends and as an apprentice aged 16-23 you can also avail of discounted fares -1/3rd off Translink bus and rail travel in Northern Ireland and up to 50% off Enterprise for up to 8 years by applying for the yLink Card.
What is a Higher Level Apprenticeship?
A Higher Level Apprenticeship is a nationally accredited work-based programme similar to traditional apprenticeships but at a higher level (Level 4 or 5). It is designed to meet the needs of employers for higher skill levels and leads to qualifications equivalent to university.
What Higher Level Apprenticeships are available?
Higher Level Apprenticeships are currently available in a range of occupational areas such as Accountancy, Architectural Technology, Business Management, Children’s Care, Learning & Development (Leadership and Management Pathway), Cloud Computing with Cyber Security, Computing, Construction, Construction Engineering with Surveying, Engineering, Leadership for Health & Social Care Services (Subject to DfE Approval), Tourism, Hospitality and Events Management (Hospitality Specialism) and Supply Chain & Logistics
What qualifications do Higher Level Apprenticeships offer?
Higher Level Apprenticeships we currently offer include qualifications from Level 4 up to Level 5.
How Can Your Career Benefit from a Higher Level Apprenticeship?
Employability
You will be employed for 2 years working with your chosen company. One day per week will be spent at Northern Regional College studying for your academic qualification. The College will have a close relationship with your employer in mentoring you throughout your employment period.
You will gain valuable knowledge, practical skills and work experience as well as an internationally recognised qualification – just the combination that can help increase your future employability, boost your CV, and help you progress into new career opportunities.
Recognised Qualification
You will gain an internationally recognised qualification – Level 4 Higher National Certificate or Level 5 Foundation Degree.
A Stepping Stone to University
Upon successful completion of your Higher Level Apprenticeship, you can continue your studies by working towards a Level 5 qualification.
Earn While You Learn
You will gain valuable work experience within your chosen area from your employer as well as gaining a recognised professional qualification and earning a regular salary (at least the national minimum wage).
Debt-free
The Higher Level Apprenticeship programme will allow you to start your highly-skilled career without the student debt that your university peers will have accumulated during their degree course – providing a real alternative to university.
How To Become a Higher Apprentice
You must be at least 18 years on or before 1 July in the year you start your course and must satisfy the general entry requirements.
As minimum you need to:
• be a new employee in, or about to take up a permanent remunerative employment offer, or an existing employee moving to a new job role that requires a substantial amount of learning and skills development commensurate to the apprenticeship pathway. An exception may be made if an individual is already on an apprenticeship pathway at a lower level, with the HLA providing a progression route without the need to move to a new job role. It is the employer’s responsibility to ensure this criteria is met.
• be employed by a company with a permanent base in Northern Ireland, have a contract of employment in place, be contracted to work a minimum of 21 hours per week (which includes day release/off-the-job directed training) with one employer, and in receipt of the appropriate wage.
• have achieved all necessary entry qualifications determined by the relevant sector.
• pass any entry tests specified by the relevant sector.
• be the minimum school leaving age in Northern Ireland.
NOTE: you may start your employment up to a maximum of 6 months prior to the commencement of your off-the-job training. The College will require a copy of your contract of employment and a wage slip to provide evidence that you are employed.
Third country nationals, including European Union (EU), European Economic Area (EEA) and Swiss Nationals and their family members, are eligible to undertake a HLA provided they have a right to live and work in the UK. For example, through:
Legal responsibility for establishing that the apprentice has a right to live and work in the UK rests with the employer.
Under the Common Travel Area arrangements, Republic of Ireland (RoI) nationals (including those who continue to reside in the RoI) are eligible to undertake a HLA subject to satisfying all other eligibility criteria.
All entry requirements are outlined within the specific course page.
Getting an Employer
Employers advertise and recruit directly for these positions. It will be competitive and there are likely to be a number of people applying for each Higher Level Apprenticeship vacancy, so you will need to sell yourself and convince the employer that you are the right person for the role. If you have already applied for a post with an employer or via Workplus you must also complete an online application for the appropriate course on our website and an Employer Details Form.
We work closely with employers to deliver high-quality training and recognised qualifications that enable apprentices to successfully complete their apprenticeship framework.
Apprenticeships offer an effective and affordable way to train new staff or upskill existing employee, benefiting both your workforce and your business.
Why Hire an Apprentice?
Benefits to Your Business:
Address Skills Gaps: Apprentices can help fill vital skills shortages within your workforce and make a real impact from day one as valued team members. By employing an apprentice, you’re investing in the future of your business and contributing to the wider Northern Ireland economy.
All Age Apprenticeships: With the introduction of All Age Apprenticeships, individuals aged 25 and over now have the opportunity to enter apprenticeships, opening the door for a more diverse talent pool.
Cost-Effective Training: Apprentices typically spend one or two days a week at College and the remainder in the workplace. As an employer, you are required to pay the apprentice at least the national minimum wage making this a highly economical way to train staff.
Employer Incentives: You may be eligible for financial support through incentive payments when your apprentice successfully completes their Level 2 or Level 3 ApprenticeshipNI framework.
Knowledge Transfer: Apprenticeships help develop a culture of mentoring, encouraging the transfer of valuable knowledge from experienced staff to the next generation.
Stronger College Connections: Working with Northern Regional College builds long-term relationships that can benefit your business through access to talent, training and support services.
Support & Resources for Employers
We provide a range of tools and resources to guide you through every step of the apprenticeship process. Our MentorConnect platform includes valuable materials
Employers’ Toolkit: How apprenticeships work, what is required from employers, and how to support your apprentice throughout their training.
MentorConnect: Mentoring Module: Free and self-directed module to support you in your role as mentor.
Interested in Hiring an Apprentice or Upskilling Staff?
We are here to help. If you would like to learn more about how apprenticeships can benefit your business, or if you are considering upskilling current employees through work-based training, get in touch with our Training Manager.
Expected Salary
The Department expects employers to pay a salary commensurate with the job role. Employers, as a minimum, must adhere to the current Northern Ireland National Minimum Wage and National Living Wage Regulations, ensuring that the participant is NOT paid the Apprenticeship rate, as this is not applicable for Higher Level Apprenticeships
Higher level apprentices can:
NOTE: A Higher Level Apprentice may start employment up to a maximum of 6 months prior to the commencement of off-the-job training. The College will require a copy of your contract of employment and a wage slip to provide evidence of employmentthat you are employed.
Employer Response Form (Apprenticeships)
Vision Verification Form (Electrical Installation AppNI only)
Apprentice Toolkit
MentorConnect
Apprenticeships are a win-win for both employers and apprentices. Don’t just take our word for it, hear from local employers who have partnered with us. Discover how apprentices have made a difference in their businesses and learn more about the strong, supportive relationships they have built with the College and their apprentices.
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The lecturers at the College are great and have an open-minded and individual approach to their students. They helped me realise that, even though I had left school 20 years ago, I could still do it.
Level 4 HNC Modern Methods of Construction
I chose the Level 3 course after attending an open night, where I spoke to lecturers about the different career paths available. I was finishing Year 12 and wasn’t totally set on returning to sixth form. The course opened my eyes to a new direction.
Level 3 Construction and the Built Environment
Level 4 Healthcare Practice
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