Choose apprenticeships

An apprenticeship is a real job where you learn, gain experience, and get paid. At the end of your apprenticeship, you’ll have the qualifications, skills, and knowledge you need. 

To become an apprentice, you must: 

  • Be 16 or over 
  • Not already be in full-time education 
  • Live in England 

8 key facts you need to know

  • An apprenticeship is a real job.

  • Apprentices are paid a salary.

  • Apprenticeships last a minimum of 12 months.

  • Apprenticeships range from level 2 to level 7.

  • Apprentices do not pay for their training.

  • Apprentices will receive paid off-the-job learning.

  • Apprentices will spend the majority of their time on-the-job.

  • There are thousands of apprenticeships in more than 170 industries.

Apprenticeship levels

In total, there are four types of apprenticeships available ranging from Level 2 (intermediate) through to Level 7 (master’s level) in more than 1,500 different job roles. 

  Level Equivalent education level
Intermediate 2 GCSE
Advanced 3 A-Level
Higher 4, 5, 6 and 7 Foundation degree and above
Degree 6 and 7 Bachelor’s or master’s degree

Which level is right for me?

The type of apprenticeship undertaken will depend on both the needs of the employer and the job role as well as your previous experience and qualifications. 

Depending on the level, some apprenticeships may: 

  • require previous qualifications such as an English or maths GCSE 
  • give extra training in the English or maths skills needed so you’re at the right level 

Sunderland College will guide you as to the most appropriate level for you. 

97.4% of our apprentices progressed to employment or further study*.

Destination data for Sunderland College 2019/20, Apprentice completers. 

Why choose Sunderland College?

96% of our apprentices agree that they have the chance to develop new skills at their workplace*.

(*On-programme Survey 2018, apprentices)

97% of our apprentices agree that their course is helping their skills to get better.*

(*On-programme Survey 2018, apprentices)

The college works in partnership with over 600 employers. 

We have over 40 Apprenticeship programmes across a range of career sectors.