Apprenticeships

City of Westminster College as part of the United Colleges Group, is nationally recognised as a leading apprenticeships provider. With outstanding achievement rates and continuously high satisfaction levels from our apprentices and employers. 

An apprenticeship is a pathway into the modern work environment for any individual aged 16 or older, offering a launchpad to earn a wage alongside achieving nationally recognised qualifications and accreditations, through on the job training and coaching from experienced industry specialists. 

We offer a range of apprenticeships to a wide range of sectors and specialisms. City of Westminster has a proud history of working alongside our local community and London employers to deliver contextualised apprenticeships that; meets London and national skills gaps, improves performance and supporting apprentices to progress quickly within their industry. 

Did you know?

• United Colleges Group (College of North West London and our sister college, City of Westminster) rated as a “Good” training provider on the Find an Apprenticeship training provider website, based on 100+ employer reviews

Why choose an apprenticeship?

• Earn while you learn
• Get paid holidays 
• Gain nationally recognised qualifications
• Learn job-specific skills
• Benefit from progression opportunities
• Increase your future earning potential
• Learn at a pace suited to you
• Get support from a workplace mentor 

Am I eligible? 

Apprenticeships are open to anyone aged 16 or above, living in the UK and not in full-time education. You must be employed in the field related to your apprenticeship to be eligible. If you’re not a UK citizen, as long as you have the right to work in the UK and the apprenticeship works within the conditions of your visa, you can pursue an apprenticeship. 

There are four main apprenticeship levels: 

• Intermediate level apprenticeships - Level 2 (equivalent to GCSEs) 
• Advanced level apprenticeships – Level 3 (equivalent to A levels) 
• Higher apprenticeships – Levels 4, 5 (equivalent to foundation degree and above)  
• Degree apprenticeships – Levels 6, 7 (equivalent to bachelor’s or master’s degree)  

What qualifications do I need?  

Level 2 (Intermediate) equivalent to GCSEs, you must be 16 years old or over. Employers may ask for a demonstrable interest in the area covered by the apprenticeship, as well as the ability to complete it 
Level 3 (Advanced) considered equivalent to A levels, at this level, employers will typically seek GCSEs, usually three or more, particularly in English and Maths. Relevant experience will also be useful. 

Level 4 (Higher) considered equivalent to a foundation degree, employers will look for GCSEs and level 3 qualifications, such as A levels, or their equivalents, such as a BTEC. It’s at this point where experience in a relevant subject is also desired 

All Apprenticeship candidates will be required to undertake maths and English assessments as part of the onboarding process and admission onto the course is subject to meeting the entry criteria. 

How long does an apprenticeship last? 

Apprenticeships vary in length depending on the qualification, level, sector and your previous experience. They can be from one year to up to four years. 

End Point Assessment

End-point assessment (EPA) is the final stage of an apprenticeship. It is an impartial assessment of whether apprentice has developed the skills, knowledge and behaviours outlined in the apprenticeship standard. Assessments are designed by employers in the sector and are conducted by independent bodies known as end-point assessment organisations (EPAOs).

Parent & carer guide to apprenticeships

Take a look at Choices Magazine - the ultimate parent and carer guide to apprenticeships and technical education.

What’s next? 

If you’re interested in an apprenticeship, you’ll need to find a suitable job and an employer willing to support you through it. 
 
For vacancies, visit findapprenticeship.service.gov.uk and register your details. You can also contact your local council.  

To find out more information or discuss your eligibility, please contact our apprenticeships team at apprenticeships@cwc.ac.uk or on 02072582711.