Apprenticeships

Apprenticeships

We are one of London's largest training providers for Apprenticeships

The College of North West London is an approved member of the Register of Apprenticeship Training Providers. Every year, employers across London choose us to train their apprentices. We have over 1000 apprentices in a range of sectors and provide specialist support that ensures high success rates and employer satisfaction.

We provide training and assessment for apprentices at our Central London site (Euston Skills Centre) as well as at our campuses in Brent (Willesden and Wembley). 

About Apprenticeships

An apprenticeship is a programme that is available to individuals from the age of 16. Apprentices do real jobs for real employers. So you’re paid while you learn. If you are entering work for the first time, you will start earning from day one of your Apprenticeship.

As an apprentice you will build up knowledge and skills, whilst gaining qualifications and earning money all at the same time. You will work towards a work-based qualification such as a National Vocational Qualification (NVQ) and other nationally recognised qualifications. Employers all over the country recognise and value Apprenticeships as they show that you’ve been trained in the skills they need.

Levels

  • There are 3 types of apprenticeships:
  • Intermediate Level Apprenticeships – Level 2
  • Advanced Level Apprenticeships – Level 3
  • Higher Apprenticeships – Level 4

Benefits to you

  • Earn a Salary
  • Get Paid Holidays
  • Receive Training
  • Gain Qualifications
  • Learn job-specific skills
  • Coming to College

    You need to attend College, usually for one day per week, to ensure the training you receive on the job meets the requirements of the Apprenticeship framework and your personal development.

    How long will it take?

    Apprenticeships typically take between one and four years to complete, depending on the type of Apprenticeship and the level. There is no set time to complete an Apprenticeship as they vary widely in content and size. The length of time taken will depend on the ability of the individual apprentice and the employer’s requirements.

    Entry Requirements

    Level 2 (Intermediate), equivalent to GCSEs: The only actual requirement is the applicant’s age, a minimum of 16. 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.

    Apprenticeships – Assessment

    Apprentices are assigned an Assessor in the College and their role is to support you throughout your training. They will visit you at work to ensure your employer is developing your skills according to the qualification. At College you will learn about theory and practical techniques required to achieve your qualification.

    You are required to undertake an End Point Assessment (EPA) which is the final assessment for an apprentice to ensure you can do the job you have been training for. EPA is separate to any qualifications or other assessment that you may undertake during the on‑programme stage of the apprenticeship.

    Do I have to pay

    No. While you are on an Apprenticeship, your employer pays you a salary and supports you whilst you undertake your training.

    Wages

    As an employed Apprentice you are part of the workforce and as such entitled to the National Minimum Wage (NMW) per hour as agreed for Apprentices.

    Holidays 

    You will be given at least 20 days of paid holiday per year as well as bank and public holidays, depending on the industry sector.