Your New Year Checklist

PHEW! 2023 is finally here. You’ve had a rested break, but now it’s time to jump straight back in.

But jump in where we hear you say? Into that super exciting career pool.

With another term up your sleeve and apprenticeship deadlines approaching, now’s the time to be thinking about your future. Which is why we’ve shared our top 5 ways to ACE your apprenticeship journey this year…

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1. Get clued up on apprenticeships

You may be wondering what type of apprenticeship is the best for you, so let’s break it down. 

There are four main types of apprenticeships:

• Intermediate
• Advanced
• Higher
• Degree

Intermediate (Level 2)

This level of apprenticeship is designed for anyone over the age of 16 and combines on the job training with some classroom learning.

An intermediate apprenticeship is the first step up the apprenticeship ladder. It’ll give you all the tools you need for a successful career, including soft skills such as teamwork and critical thinking. It’s also the equivalent of getting five GCSEs.

There was an 8% increase in the number of people doing an apprenticeship in 2021/2022 than the previous year. Looks like the trend’s catching on.

Advanced (Level 3)

Need to move up a level on the apprenticeship lift? This is where advanced apprenticeships come in.

This level is aimed at those who have got some experience behind them at an intermediate level, and are ready to show off their new skills in a specific industry.

You study towards a national certified qualification while working full time. The entry requirements vary between companies but you usually need at least five GCSEs at 9-4 (A* to C). 

But don’t worry, OF COURSE you get paid here too.

Higher (Level 4/5/6/7)

Now we’re getting to the nitty gritty of it. At this level you have to be at least 18 or over and have completed either your GCSE’s, have a minimum of 2 A-Levels or finished an advanced apprenticeship.

You are essentially a pro at this point, the Harry Kane of apprentices, but there are always more skills to be developed.

Working 30+ hours a week while earning a salary, by the end of it every employer will want you on their team. Maybe even Gareth Southgate himself.

Degree Apprenticeship

This is the CEO of apprenticeships, the higher power, the almighty.

Some go down the uni route and that’s cool but an alternative is the degree apprenticeship.

During a degree apprenticeship, you work with your employer alongside studying at university.

If you decide to go down this route there are absolutely no fees to pay, these are covered by the government and employer.

There are no loans, so you can walk right into the world of work, debt-free and with tons of experience.

A win-win situation right?

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2. Now find the BEST employers

Ok, so now you know which apprenticeship type might be best for you and your industry. Next up, it’s finding an employer. 

But that can be tough. We get it. There are literally thousands of companies to choose from. That’s why we’re here to help.

Our Best Student Employers tables are updated every year, using over 40,000 reviews written by students who have been in your shoes. You’ll find the crème de la crème of companies in each industry, plus those who go above and beyond in certain individual categories.

So what are you waiting for? Get exploring!

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Wanna hear about apprenticeships straight from the horse’s mouth? Discover what real-life apprentices had to stay in our 40,000 reviews (and counting).

Apprenticeship reviews this way

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3. Get that CV glowing

New year, new CV? Yep, it’s time to get that CV glowing. Have a look at yours and consider any ways you can improve and enhance it. Think you don’t have any experience? Think again.

Here are some of our TOP tips for making yours stand out from the crowd:

• Include real-life examples: part of any teams at school? Do any part time babysitting on the weekend? Include them. They show you have good organisational skills and a level of responsibility
• Make it relevant: if you studied a particular module that is relevant to the role you are applying for, make it the focal point of the education section of your CV. Similarly, draw attention to any related coursework or projects you completed to highlight your interest in a particular field of study
• Don’t go over 2 pages: no one wants to spend ages reading through CVs. Keeps yours to one page and with a clear design and you’re onto a winner!

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4. Apply, apply, apply

February and March are KEY times to apply for apprenticeships, with most deadlines ending around then. So now is the time to look for available roles and save any that have taken your fancy. 

Not sure where to start with your application? We’ve got your back.

The STAR technique is going to be your new BFF. Follow these rules when filling in your applications and you’ll smash it

What does STAR stand for?

SITUATION – What was the situation you faced? When and where did it happen?

TASK – What was the task, and what was the objective?

ACTION – What action did you take to achieve your objective? How did you tackle the problem you faced?

RESULTS – What was the result of your actions? How did you measure your success? What did you learn from the situation (evaluation)? What skills did you learn?

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5. Psychometric Tests? NAILED it

These online tests measure your suitability for a job based on your skills, knowledge and personality. Practice makes perfect, so click below for example questions and tips.

Hopefully you’ve left feeling inspired and motivated to get cracking this new year.

And if not? Well you can always try tomorrow!

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