What is an apprenticeship?
27th October 2025
Not sure on your next steps after college? Why not consider an apprenticeship!
Apprenticeships offer great career opportunities, allowing you to earn and learn at the same time! You will spend most of your time with an employer, gaining hands-on experience, and the rest studying towards a qualification—usually one day a week at college or with a training provider.
Both City College Norwich and Easton College offer a variety of exciting Apprenticeships, which you can browse here:
We work closely with around 800 employers to provide Apprenticeships in hundreds of industries!
To become an apprentice, you need to be employed in a relevant job role and be given the opportunity to learn new skills which relate to your job and industry. If your employer chooses us as a training provider, you will work alongside experienced staff to receive planned training and development with a dedicated workplace mentor.
Types of Apprenticeships
There are four levels of Apprenticeships you can choose from, and the level you do will depend on your qualifications, experience and the type of industry you will work in:
- Intermediate (Level 2) – equivalent to five GCSEs
- Advanced (Level 3) – equivalent to two A Levels, a Level 3 Diploma, or an International Baccalaureate
- Higher (Levels 4–7) – Foundation degree and above
- Degree (Levels 6–7) – Bachelor’s or Master’s degree
…yes, you can get a degree without going to university full-time!
Did you know?
As of 2025, there are 836 approved apprenticeship standards available in hundreds of industries, from engineering and healthcare to digital marketing, law, and even space technology! Each standard outlines the knowledge, skills, and behaviours required for a specific occupation, and includes an end-point assessment to ensure you are prepared for the next step in your career.
How do I apply for an Apprenticeship?
Head over to the official government site to apply: Search apprenticeship – Find an apprenticeship – GOV.UK
Still not sure where to start?
We’ve got some great tips for you!
- Speak to our Apprenticeship Team for tips and suggestions of possible employers you could approach, and where to find them.
- Pop in to the Advice Shop and speak to one of our advisers – they’re more than happy to help you search for vacancies!
- Attend local Apprenticeship fairs or employer open days
- Follow companies you're interested in on socials, as many will advertise roles directly
- Make use of the contacts that you have amongst your friends, family and neighbours and ask if anyone is aware of any vacancies in the area you are interested in