---
title: How Do Apprenticeships Work?
description: apprenticeships, vacancies, live application, applications, apply, college, work based, Southampton, Fareham, Eastleigh, Hampshire
---
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1. [Candidate Support](https://businessplus.shcg.ac.uk/candidatesupport?hsLang=en-gb)
2. [FAQs](https://businessplus.shcg.ac.uk/candidatesupport/faqs?hsLang=en-gb)
3. [Apprenticeship Questions](https://businessplus.shcg.ac.uk/candidatesupport/faqs?hsLang=en-gb#apprenticeship-questions)
# How Do Apprenticeships Work?
## Apprenticeships combine paid employment with structured training, allowing you to earn a wage while developing skills and achieving a recognised qualification.
As an apprentice, you’ll spend the majority of your time working in a real job, supported by your employer, while also completing dedicated training delivered by a registered training provider.
You’ll typically work at least 30 hours per week, receive at least the apprenticeship minimum wage, and work towards industry-specific qualifications such as Level 2, 3 or higher.
**Pay**
As an apprentice, you’ll earn while you learn. In most cases, you’ll receive at least the apprenticeship minimum wage, Your pay may increase as you progress, and you’ll benefit from the same workplace rights as other employees, including paid holidays and pension contributions.
**Training**
Training is split between your job and structured learning delivered by a registered training provider.
Most of your working week is spent with your employer, gaining experience and contributing to your team. The remaining time – at least 20% – is dedicated to training. This could include classroom sessions, online modules, one-to-one tuition, or practical workshops. All your off-the-job training is designed to help you build the key knowledge and skills you need for the role.
**Time Commitments**
Apprenticeships can last anywhere from one to five years, depending on the job and qualification level. During this time, you’ll typically work at least 30 hours per week, balancing your workplace responsibilities with training commitments. The exact balance varies by employer and programme, but your training provider and manager will support you to make it work.
**Qualifications**
Every apprenticeship leads to a nationally recognised qualification, such as a Level 2 (equivalent to GCSEs), Level 3 (A Levels), or even higher-level and degree apprenticeships.
You’ll develop technical skills, industry knowledge, and essential ‘soft skills’ like teamwork, communication, and problem-solving.
On completion, you’ll not only have experience under your belt but qualifications that open further doors – whether into full-time employment, further study, or higher-level apprenticeships.
Apprenticeships are designed to fit around your needs. They offer a valuable blend of earning, learning, and growing in a supportive, real-world environment.
For more detail on specific apprenticeships, entry requirements, and the application process, visit shcg.ac.uk or contact our apprenticeship team for individual guidance.
- [FAQs](https://businessplus.shcg.ac.uk/candidatesupport/faqs?hsLang=en-gb#main-content)
- [Funding](https://businessplus.shcg.ac.uk/candidatesupport/faqs?hsLang=en-gb#funding)
- [Apprenticeship Questions](https://businessplus.shcg.ac.uk/candidatesupport/faqs?hsLang=en-gb#apprenticeship-questions)
- [Apprenticeships](https://businessplus.shcg.ac.uk/candidatesupport/apprenticeships?hsLang=en-gb#main-content)
- [Finding an Employer](https://businessplus.shcg.ac.uk/candidatesupport/apprenticeships?hsLang=en-gb#finding-an-employer)
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