The University’s Apprenticeship Programme is now looking to recruit for 2015. Apprenticeships attract government funding for training. Whether you are looking to appoint a young member of staff (16-24 years) via the Apprenticeship Programme or the Trainee Technician Programme, there’s a great deal on offer.

To express an interest or find out more, email claire.cawthorne@nottingham.ac.uk by Wednesday 14 January.

The University of Nottingham Apprenticeship Programme

Our Apprenticeship Programme provides young people from Nottingham and the surrounding area with worthwhile jobs and excellent training. Our apprentices also make a significant contribution to the University and employing an apprentice is not a charitable activity. Evidence suggests that apprentices are highly motivated, highly productive and – because of the combination of in-house support and external training – are able to quickly become productive and valuable members of staff. As an employer, the University can offer a wide variety of apprenticeship frameworks to fit the requirements of the schools and departments. Many of our apprentices have gone on to gain employment within the University, although we are unable to guarantee a permanent post at the end of an apprenticeship.

How do apprenticeships work?

Apprenticeships are increasingly recognised as the gold standard for work-based training. There are three levels of apprenticeship available to those aged 16 and over:

Intermediate Level 2 This level of apprenticeship is equivalent to 5 GCSEs A*-C. Apprentices work towards a work-based learning qualification such as a Level 2 competence qualification, functional skills and, in most cases, a relevant knowledge-based qualification.

Advanced Level 3 This level is equivalent to 2-3 A Levels. Apprentices work towards work-based learning qualifications such as a Level 3 competence qualification, functional skills and, in most cases, a relevant knowledge-based qualification.

Higher Levels 4 & 5 A higher apprenticeship is equivalent to a foundation degree. Apprentices work towards work-based learning qualifications such as a Level 4 competence qualification, functional skills and, in some cases, a relevant knowledge-based qualification.

The decision about which level you should appoint is based on a number of factors, including the needs of the employer. An assessment will be carried out by the learning provider before an apprentice is enrolled on a programme to ensure a best fit for the apprentice and the University.

All apprenticeships run by the University are designed to offer the very best support and will equip apprentices with the skills and experiences needed for their employment including an in-house development programme; line management and mentor support, college tutors and assessors.

As well as support for the individual apprentices, the recruiting Schools are also supported by the Apprenticeship Programme Manager.