

If your impression of apprenticeships is limited to the traditional skills such as plumbing, think again. Today’s apprentices can be found working in all employment sectors and with an apprenticeship you get the best of both worlds as you earn whilst you learn. Apprenticeships are an excellent way of gaining qualifications and workplace experience equipping you with marketable skills enhancing your career prospects. Progression from apprenticeship to advanced apprenticeship and higher apprenticeship is possible and anyone over 16, who is not in full time education but is employed, can apply. Apprenticeships can take between one and two years to complete depending on the level, your ability and the job you choose. Before you start your apprenticeship you need to be employed in an appropriate job and have the support of your employer. If you are looking for a job or thinking of approaching your employer about apprenticeship we can offer help and advice. While you are on an apprenticeship, your employer pays you a salary and supports your training. The National Apprenticeship Service pays the costs of your training depending on your age. Most of the training is ‘on the job’ overseen by our experienced assessors and verifiers. Where additional training is required our state of the art campus provides a state of the art environment in which to acquire new skills. Epping Forest College has a growing portfolio of apprenticeships currently offered in the following areas:

	Motor Vehicle This VCQ is an integral part of IMI SSC Maintenance and Repair Apprenticeship Framework (Light Vehicle Route) - ideal for learners who are keen to build a career in the industry. The course covers the fundamental principles for each system found in the motor vehicle, including engines, brakes, electrical systems and transmission.
	Plumbing Gain a qualification in domestic plumbing mechanical engineering services ideal for those wishing to work in residential properties. Includes Certificate in plumbing studies (VRQ) for core knowledge and a VCQ for workplace competence.
	Construction Bricklayers build and maintain a range of structures including internal and external walls on new houses and commercial projects, chimney stacks and decorative work such as archways and garden walls. They also deal with repair and refurbishment of existing brickwork or masonry. Apprentices work towards a work-based NVQ qualification in addition to the nationally recognised Construction Diploma.
	ITQ The most flexible IT User qualification yet, suitable for anyone who uses IT. The course structure and assessment methods make it suitable for almost any workplace and intended career. Includes support for bespoke and specialist software units for use with any specific applications used in the workplace.
	IT Practitioners Learn how to assemble computers, and how to troubleshoot hardware and software on this course which has been designed with employers, to prepare students for a variety of professional IT careers such as network administrator, network technician or network help desk administrator.
	Business and Administration Ideal for those working within a range of business environments who wish to increase their practical administration skills and knowledge. Suitable for everyone from administrative assistants to operations managers covering subjects from handling mail to developing company-wide administrative systems.
	Customer Service For anyone in a customer-facing role which could include retail, hospitality etc. Learn how to differentiate between different customer needs and respond accordingly. Includes understanding and meeting customer needs, giving a great customer experience, learning from feedback and promoting your products and services.
	Hospitality As varied as the industry itself, hospitality covers a wide range of roles from front office and housekeeping to organising conference facilities and contract catering. Whether working in a top hotel or local pub hospitality skills are identical and ultimately aimed at ensuring the best customer experience.
	Childcare Ideal for those wishing to pursue a career working with children (from birth to age 16) and their families. You could be working in a variety of places including crèches, play groups, Children's centers, nurseries, day care centers or working on community based programmes. Subjects covered include children’s welfare and safety, activities and developing valuable practical and social skills.
	Health & Social Care This qualification is designed for those who work with individuals to support and assist them with their physical or emotional care, daily living needs or maintaining their independence. This includes home care assistants, community support assistants, healthcare assistants and residential or day service assistants.
	AAT (Association of Accounting Technicians) AAT provides internationally recognised qualifications in accounting. The course covers basic and computerised accounting and basic costing as well as how to work effectively in a finance environment. More advanced subjects include preparing accounts, cash management, indirect tax and spreadsheets.

If you are a young person looking for more information, or an employer looking to offer an apprenticeship, contact our specialist team on 020 8502 8733