Apprenticeships

An apprenticeship is a paid job that combines work with training and study. As an apprentice, you’ll work for an employer, earn a wage and complete a nationally recognised qualification. 

An apprenticeship includes: 

• A paid job  
• Hands-on work experience  
• A nationally recognised qualification  
• Off-the-job training  
• Support from your employer and college. 

Whether you’re leaving school, looking to change careers or wanting to develop new skills in your current role, an apprenticeship allows you to earn while you learn and build experience in a real working environment. 

There are several ways to apply for an apprenticeship with Oldham College. 

If you already know which apprenticeship you’re interested in, you can browse our Apprenticeship Courses and apply directly through the relevant course page. Each course page includes information about the qualification, entry requirements and application process. 

If you’re looking for a job opportunity, you can search our Apprenticeship Vacancies to find live apprenticeship jobs with local employers across a range of industries. 

You’ll spend most of your time in the workplace, learning the skills and knowledge needed for your chosen career. At least 20% of your working hours will be dedicated to off-the-job training, which may take place at college, online or in the workplace.  

You will typically spend four days a week developing your practical skills on the job and one day a week at Oldham College. 

Apprenticeships differ depending on which one you choose; however, they have to be a minimum of 12 months in duration to be classed as an apprenticeship.   

Although every apprenticeship varies, assessment is continuous throughout your programme, through a mix of on-the-job and off-the-job training. Most apprenticeships require written assignments, workplace or industry demonstrations and portfolio building.   

You may also have an EPA (End-Point Assessment). This will assess you against the knowledge, skills, and behaviours (KSBs) in the occupational standard. Your training will cover the KSBs. The EPA is your opportunity to show an independent assessor how well you can carry out the occupation you have been trained for. 

If you’re aged 16 to 19 and in the first year of your apprenticeship, you’ll be entitled to at least the National Minimum Wage for apprentices (£8 per hour). If you’re 19 or over and you’ve completed your first year, you’ll be entitled to either the National Minimum Wage or the National Living Wage for your age. 

Some employers choose to pay more than the minimum wage. When you get an apprenticeship, your pay will also be displayed in your employment contract. 

Although there are no specific entry requirements for an apprenticeship, employers will usually require you to have a GCSE grade 4 or equivalent in English and Maths.  

If you do not have GCSE grade 4 or above in English and/or Maths you will be required to achieve your Functional Skills.