Frequently asked questions

An Apprenticeship is a route to becoming a fully skilled person through training, competency and work based skills and education. An apprenticeship covers, skills, knowledge and behaviours to become a skilled technician.

Attendance varies depending on the programme and employer requirements. This may include full-time foundation training which is 5 days per week Monday- Friday, 9am - 4pm, day release attending 1 day per week, or block release models.

Most of our programmes require a minimum of 5 GCSEs at grades 5–9 (A–C), including English, Mathematics and Science. We also look for candidates who are enthusiastic and willing to learn

No, apprenticeships are open to all applicants regardless of age, so you can start an apprenticeship at any age. There is no age limit on apprenticeships.

Apprentices receive support from:

• Dedicated assessors and trainers
• Workplace mentors
• Regular reviews and progress monitoring
• We have an onsite safeguarding and wellbeing mentor
• If you need any support with learning or have and EHCP let us know when you make your application so we can make any necessary adjustments to support you

Waterside Apprenticeships last between 3 and 4 years. A skills scan at the start of the programme will be completed to ascertain any prior learning and or experience that may have an impact on your qualifications and length of the apprenticeship programme especially if you have prior learning or skills.

An apprenticeship is equivalent to A Level's. The programme will consist of 80% practical work and 20% theoretical work. You may attend Waterside one day per week  to attend an academic programme throughout the apprenticeship programme. You can progress to HNC within the apprenticeship programme, however, this is optional and at the discretion of your academic performance at Level 4 and if your employing company will sponsor your progression to Level 4.

Yes. Apprentices are employed and paid a wage by their employer while completing their training. You can find information on the minimum apprenticeship wage via this link 

Applications will open around January and close around May for our active intake, visit our vacancy page to find out available vacancies

• Online application
• Aptitude testing
• Initial interview with Waterside
• Final interview with the employer

Yes. You only need to complete one application form and can indicate additional vacancies you are interested in.