About Apprenticeships

Our NVQ Apprenticeships do not cost you anything and you can train and learn whilst you work.

NVQ Apprenticeships are becoming more and more valued by employers because they focus on the practical element of learning. In the workplace these skills are extremely sought after and most employers are very keen to have NVQ trained staff.

You may have great GCSE or A Level grades in certain subjects but that does not necessarily mean that you can use these skills in a practical environment. That is where Apprenticeships come in, if your dream is to work in Administration or to be a Chef then an apprenticeship qualification may be more appropriate for you.

Employers are looking for people who get the job done!! At Smart we pride ourselves on the training and support that we provide. In an ideal world most of your Apprenticeship training will take place in your workplace and will be provided by the employer, after all it is in their interest to have you trained up to the standard that they require.

There are two levels of Apprenticeship and they are as follows:

  • Apprenticeship – A Level 2 Apprenticeship programme aimed at those who are new to their job role, or who want to develop their skills in order to progress to a Level 3 programme in the future.
  • Advanced Apprenticeship – A Level 3 programme which is aimed at those who are working in a Supervisory position and have a good working knowledge of their sector.

Apprenticeship programmes are made up of 4 elements, you must achieve all of these to complete your apprenticeship in full:

  • National Vocational Qualification (NVQ) – NVQ’s are work related, competence based qualifications. This means that if you achieve a NVQ you are recognised as being able to do your job to the required standard.
  • Key Skills Qualification – These qualifications enable you to develop vital skills that you will need in employment. Keyskills are skills that you can apply to your everyday working environment. For example, Numeracy skills so that you can do a stock take, or literacy skills so that you can write a letter. If you have achieved a GCSE Grade A-C in English or Maths then you may be exempt from taking Keyskills.
  • Technical Certificate – Designed to help you get to grips with the skills and knowledge you need to get ahead in your profession. These are often taken on a 1 or ½ day release basis and take place at Smart House.
  • Employment rights and responsibilities – A programme of learning which is designed to inform you of your Employment Rights and Responsibilities and why these are important.

Smart Training Offers Apprenticeships in the Following Subjects, for more detailed information please click on the subject below: