An apprenticeship is a paid job with a training involved. It allows young people to earn while they learn, as well as gaining a nationally recognised qualification.

Apprenticeships are for young people aged 16 and upwards.

The young person will need to have achieved GCSE grades A-C or 9-4 or equivalent or continue to work towards this as part of the apprenticeship. Young people with an EHC plan are exempt from passing in order to progress.

The government made English and maths an extra requirement (something you must achieve to complete your apprenticeship). If a young person has/had an EHC plan, there may be some flexibility around the maths and English requirement. This can be discussed with the employer or training provider.

Apprenticeships allow you to learn whilst working. You earn a wage and gain experience in a job you would like to work in whilst also studying, giving you a qualification at the end of your learning.

Local colleges, universities and private training providers. Some local authorities, including Sheffield City Council, also offer apprenticeships. For further information, go to www.gov.uk/apply-apprenticeship

If additional support is required (outside the employer making reasonable adjustments), then an application to Access to Work can be completed for an assessment.

A Disability Confident Employer will generally offer interviews to anyone applying with a disability as long as they meet the minimum requirements.

How to apply through the government website

To find an apprenticeship and how to apply go to the government website.

Below are some organisations that can help you in Sheffield.

Lifelong Learning

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Lifelong Learning support young people looking for an apprenticeship.  They have a focus on Sheffield City Council apprenticeships.  They support other employers with their apprenticeships.

They run CDC Training which is an apprenticeship centre. This is wholly owned by Sheffield City Council. It provides apprenticeship training for a range of employers across Sheffield. It delivers all Sheffield City Council's apprenticeship programmes.

For people from a SEND background, they will provide support to apply for any apprenticeship. They will give support and advice:

  • about how to find an apprenticeship
  • on how to apply and interview for roles
  • on careers information

You can refer by email or you can complete an online registration form.

E-mail: Terry.Mitchell@sheffield.gov.uk 

Opportunity Sheffield

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Opportunity Sheffield are the Council’s employment and skills service.

They help people who want to start their employment journey but don't know how.  This includes those with disabilities and physical or mental health issues.

They have an Apprenticeship Ready service. The team will support and give advice. They run Apprenticeships: Be Inspired events.

For more information e-mail the team on apprenticeshipready@sheffield.gov.uk.

The Source

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The Source Academy based in Sheffield can give you more information on applying and becoming an apprentice.

Telephone: 0114 263 5600

E-mail: marketing@thesourceacademy.co.uk