VTS - Vocational Training Services - YOU DON'T HAVE TO STAY AT SCHOOL!
Home / 16-18? YOU DON'T HAVE TO STAY AT SCHOOL!
Most young people don't realise that having to stay in some form or education or training until they are 18 years old does not mean that you have to stay at school. Find out here about your apprenticeship options after you finish your GCSEs.
When can I leave school? Once you have completed your GCSE's and so long as you will be 16 years old by the end of the summer holiday, you are free to leave school and undertake an Apprenticeship, if that's what you would like to do.
How does an apprenticeship differ from school?
On an apprenticeship most of your time will be spent with an employer, and you'll learn whilst you complete the job. Some of your time will be spent learning in a classroom environment, but mostly on-the-job training. You'll get paid for your work too!
In order to enrol onto an intermediate apprenticeship, you may need two or more GCSEs at grades A*-C, or an equivalent qualification. But not all employers ask for GCSE's – some ask for a good general standard of education. If you don't have GCSEs in maths or English though, don't panic! You'll usually be required to take a basic numeracy and literacy test to assess your basic skills. As part of the apprenticeship, you may take Functional Skills qualification at Level 1 or 2 too.
Intermediate apprenticeships are the first level of apprenticeships available and also the most popular. They're designed to give you access to entry level job roles and provide you with the basic skills you'll need to work in your chosen field.
Once you've completed your intermediate, Level 2 apprenticeship you can then go onto an advanced apprenticeship to develop your skills even more if you wish.
Advanced apprenticeships can be taken after your GCSEs or after completing an intermediate apprenticeship and they offer an alternative to studying A-levels. An advanced apprenticeship is a great opportunity. You'll gain some vital training, develop skills and could gain nationally recognised qualifications, all whilst earning money!
Usually, if you want to complete an advanced apprenticeship, you'll either need to have completed an Intermediate apprenticeship or have a certain number of GCSEs – however, this isn't always the case – check with us.
What kinds of apprenticeships are available with VTS?
Business Administration – you could be working in any kind of office, perhaps in finance, property, legal or a hospital. We also offer Customer Service and Team Leading.
Child Care – working in a children's nursery.
Supporting Teaching and Learning in Schools – working as a teaching/ learning support assistant in a school.
Alternatively, contact our Office Manager, Shannon True on 01702 353557 or email [email protected] for more information. We've always got vacancies for Apprentices, so ask for details or have a look at our current vacancies here.