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Benefits of an apprenticeship


An apprenticeship is simply a job with training. 

Am I eligible?

You need to be:

  • 16+ years old (there's no maximum age!)
  • Living in England;
  • Not in full-time education.

There may be other entry requirements depending on the apprenticeship.

What are the benefits?

An apprenticeship can take you anywhere.  You can learn new skills, gain knowledge, experience and it can help you rise to the top of the ladder in your chosen profession or career.  As an apprentice you can access our offer to employees, and some other benefits include:

  • Earn as you learn
  • Hands-on experience
  • Recognised qualification/s
  • Development opportunities
  • A mentor and a buddy
  • Apprentice networking
  • Career advice and guidance
  • Student discount card
  • A foot in the door and a step on the career ladder

What do the levels of apprenticeship mean?

Apprenticeships have equivalent educational levels:

Name Level Equivalent educational level
Intermediate 2 5 GCSE passes at grades A* to C / 4 and above 
Advanced 3 2 A level passes
Higher 4, 5, 6 and 7 Foundation degree and above
Degree 6 and 7 Bachelor's or master's degree

 

What will I be paid?

The table below shows the full-time equivalent annual salaries for staff employed on an apprentice contract by Cornwall Council. Or its maintained schools with effect from 1 April 2024.

Role

Salary

Hourly Rate (37 hour week)

Apprentice Level 2

£16,591*

£8.60

Apprentice Level 3

£22,070**

£11,44 

Apprentice Level 4

£23,151***

£12.00 

Apprentice Level 5

£25,928 (Level 4 + 12%)

£13.44 

Apprentice Level 6

£29,040 (Level 5 + 12%)

£15.05 

Apprentice Level 7

£32,524 (Level 6 + 12%)

£16.86 

Hourly rate = full time salary ÷ 1929.18

* this pay rate is aligned with the National Minimum Wage (NMW) for 18-20 year olds. 
** this rate of pay is aligned with the National Minimum Wage (NMW) for over 25 year olds (the National Living Wage). 
*** this rate of pay is aligned to the Living Wage Foundation rate.

National Minimum Wage Rates for Apprentice Level 2 - wef 1 April 2024

Age of Apprentice after first year of apprenticeship

National Minimum Wage Hourly Rate

Salary (£)

Aged under 21

£8.60

£16,591

Aged 21 or over

£11.44

£22,070

Not quite ready for an apprenticeship?

Cornwall Council also runs a work experience programme. Please view Work Experience Placements at Cornwall Council for more information.

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