Harrow Apprenticeships Hub

Finding information about Apprenticeships can be hard and sometimes confusing. We have partnered with Harrow Council to help you find local apprenticeships, helpful information and organisations that can support you.

What is an apprenticeship?

An apprenticeship is a way to learn a job by working alongside skilled professionals while studying for a qualification. You get hands-on experience, earn money and gain the skills you need for a career.

Benefits

    • Get paid to learn - It's a form of study that's completely free for learners, so no student loans or tuition fees - It won't cost you anything!
    • Get a head start in your career - You'll be stepping on the career ladder years before university graduates, so you can start earning and progressing faster.
    • Become more employable - The hands-on experience you gain in an apprenticeship will stand out on your CV.
    • Discover a variety of careers - Apprenticeships are available across so many sectors that you might not have realised before.
Apprenticeship FAQs

Employer Spotlight - Wates

Wates is one of Harrow Council's property development partners. Over the next few years they are going to be responsible for a lot of construction in Harrow and there will be some great roles and work experience available on their website.

The construction industry isn't only about working on building sites - They need people from all walks of life with a wide range of skills. From designers to lawyers, writers to project managers, accountants and surveyoras. There are a huge variety of roles on offer. Please contact Abbie Langridge for more information.

More about Wates

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Need support?

If you need help applying for an apprenticeship or finding out more about them, some free local services in Harrow can help you.

If you are in school or college, we recommend speaking to your careers leader or employment service first.

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Advice and FAQs on Apprenticeships

  • Who can do an apprenticeship?

    In the UK, you can start an apprenticeship if:

    • You’re aged 16 or older.
    • You’re not in full-time education.
    • You’re living in England, Scotland, Wales, or Northern Ireland.

    Apprenticeships are available for people of all ages, though they’re especially popular with school leavers and young adults.

  • How long does an apprenticeship take?

    Apprenticeships can last anywhere between 1 and 5 years, depending on the level, industry, and your previous experience.

    • Intermediate Apprenticeships. Usually take about 1 to 2 years.
    • Advanced Apprenticeships. Typically last 2 to 3 years.
    • Higher and Degree Apprenticeships. Can take 3 to 5 years to complete.
  • Do I get paid during my apprenticeship?

    Yes! As an apprentice, you’ll earn a wage. The minimum apprenticeship wage for those aged 16 to 18, and those aged 19 or over in their first year of apprenticeship, is £6.40 per hour (as of April 2024). However, many employers pay more than this.

    Find Harrow Apprenticeships here.

  • What industries offer apprenticeships?

    Apprenticeships are available in a wide range of industries, including:

    • Creative and Design
    • Engineering and Manufacturing
    • Business and Finance
    • Health and Social Care
    • Construction
    • IT and Digital
    • Public Sector

    There are hundreds of apprenticeship standards available, so you can choose one that aligns with your career interests. Find Harrow Apprenticeships here.

  • Do I need any qualifications to start an apprenticeship?

    For an Intermediate Apprenticeship (Level 2), you may not need any formal qualifications. However, for Advanced and Higher Apprenticeships, employers might ask for GCSEs (including Maths and English) or A-levels.

    If you haven’t achieved the required Maths and English qualifications, your employer may provide support during your apprenticeship to help you achieve them.

  • What qualifications can I get through an apprenticeship?

    Depending on the apprenticeship level, you could work towards:

    • Intermediate Apprenticeship (Level 2) – equivalent to 5 GCSEs.
    • Advanced Apprenticeship (Level 3) – equivalent to 2 A-levels.
    • Higher Apprenticeship (Levels 4-7) – can lead to a foundation degree or higher qualifications.
    • Degree Apprenticeship (Level 6 or 7) – leads to a full bachelor’s or master’s degree.
  • How do I apply for an apprenticeship?

    To apply for an apprenticeship:

    1. Search for vacancies- there are lots on this website but you can also look on government websites like Gov.uk or job boards like Indeed or UCAS.
    2. Complete an online application form or submit your CV.
    3. You may be asked to attend an interview or complete assessments as part of the recruitment process.

    Your school or college career advisor can also help you with the application process.

    Speak to Harrow Council’s Xcite team if you live in Harrow and are aged 18+.

    Speak with Harrow Youth Stop if you are aged 16-24 and not in education or employment.

  • Can I do an apprenticeship if I have a disability or SEND?

    Yes, apprenticeships are accessible to everyone, including people with disabilities or special educational needs. Employers and training providers are legally required to make reasonable adjustments to support your learning and employment needs.

  • Will I get a job after completing my apprenticeship?

    While there’s no guarantee of a permanent job at the end of an apprenticeship, many apprentices (around 65%) are offered full-time employment by their apprenticeship employer. Even if you don’t stay with the same employer, the skills and qualifications you gain will make you more attractive to other employers.

  • Can I progress after completing an apprenticeship?

    Yes! Completing an apprenticeship opens doors to career progression. After finishing, you could:

    • Continue working with your employer and take on more responsibility.
    • Progress to a higher-level apprenticeship.
    • Move on to further education, such as a university degree.

    Some employers even offer degree apprenticeships as part of career progression.

Apprenticeships with Harrow Council

Harrow Council offers dynamic apprenticeships for individuals looking to kickstart their careers in local government and public service. These apprenticeships provide hands-on experience across various departments, including social care, finance, administration, IT, and more.

Apprentices earn while they learn, gaining valuable skills, qualifications, and real-world insight into the vital work that keeps Harrow thriving. Harrow Council is committed to supporting apprentices through professional development and mentoring, paving the way for successful careers in the public sector. If you are looking for an apprenticeship at Harrow Council, contact us.