Apprenticeships

As an apprentice you’ll be earning a wage whilst you learn new skills to help you in your role. You'll complete a nationally recognised qualification and be assessed throughout your learning.

An apprenticeship is a great way to develop your skills and knowledge to become a confident and skilled care worker. If you’re new to adult social care an apprenticeship is a really good place to start. If you already work in social care, you can do an apprenticeship to help you progress in your career.

You could be working with a range of people. This could include people with learning disabilities and/or autism, physical disabilities, ex-offenders or older people.

Am I eligable?

You can apply for an apprenticeship if you’re over 16 years of age, living in England and not in full-time education.

Apply while you're at school you can apply while you’re still at school as long as you’re 16 by the end of the summer holidays.

Already working in social care? You can also apply for an apprenticeship if you’re already working in social care. This will allow you to gain new skills and progress into a new role.

Duration

Most apprenticeships last between 12 months and two years and you'll be required to complete an assessment at the end of your apprenticeship.

Find an apprenticeship

Apprenticeships have different levels depending on your skills and experience. If you’re new to social care an intermediate level 2 apprenticeship is a good place to start. When you’re ready to progress you could do an advanced level 3 or intermediate level 4 apprenticeship. 

If you’re already working in the sector you can speak to your manager about starting an apprenticeship as part of your career development.

1. Search for vacancies in your local area and contact organisations to see if apprenticeship opportunities are available.

2. Speak to your school, college, Jobcentre Plus or learning provider about opportunities and support on the process of finding an employer that will offer you the right opportunity within the sector.

3. Attend local job/career fairs to talk to employers about any opportunities.
   
   

 Did you know?

• Apprenticeships aren't just for young people and school leavers; they’re open to everyone aged 16 upwards.

• Apprenticeships in social care are often flexible with regards to the number of hours you work every week and the time of the day you work. 

• Many apprentices are offered permanent positions by their employer and can go on to take up management and leadership roles.

Hear from apprentices

Find apprenticeships from the National Apprenticeship Service (NAS).