Springfield Training

What is an Apprenticeship?

An Apprenticeship is a route to gaining employer recognised qualifications whilst being employed, so you will receive a wage and gain practical experience and training that will benefit you in your career.

What wage does an Apprentice receive?

You will receive at least the national minimum wage for an Apprentice which is as follows:

For Apprentices aged 16 to 19 years the minimum wage is £4.81 per hour.

When will I start receiving my wage?

You will start to receive a wage once you are employed.

Will you help me find employment?

At Springfield Training we have a dedicated employer engagement team who can help you find a suitable job, but we do expect you to play an active role in finding a job as well.

Who is eligible to undertake Apprenticeship training at Springfield Training?

You must be at least 16 years old but there is no upper age limit.

You cannot undertake an Apprenticeship if you have already completed one in the same subject at the same level.

You will be required to complete an initial assessment following your application and your previous learning achievements must be checked to ensure eligibility.

What sort of training will I undertake?

The type of training and assessment required specifically for your course will be outlined by your course tutor at the start of your Apprenticeship.

You will be trained and assessed by your tutor in your workplace as well as receiving additional underpinning knowledge training at our training centre as required. You will be required to complete assignments given to you by your tutor.

What are the benefits of an Apprenticeship?

You will gain employer recognised accredited qualifications whilst at the same time gaining valuable work experience and earning a wage.

I am already employed can I still do an Apprenticeship?

Yes you can, if your employer agrees and you meet the entry requirements previously stated.

What is the role of my employer?

Remember, your employer has seen potential in you and has made a commitment to employing you and investing in your training and development. As your skills and experience develop and grow you will start to contribute to the success of the business. Your employer will work in partnership with Springfield Training to support you throughout your Apprenticeship.

Can I choose where I work?

Yes you can, the final decision is always yours, but remember, there isn't an endless supply of jobs and it's essential that you're realistic about your initial career objectives. Springfield Training will help you in making this decision to ensure that you get the most out of your Apprenticeship.

How long is an Apprenticeship?

The length of an Apprenticeship varies depending on the subject and level, but no Apprenticeship programme can be completed in less than one year. Specific details about your Apprenticeship will be discussed with you when you apply to join us.

Why have I been advised to go on a Traineeship before an Apprenticeship?

Traineeships are designed to provide you with valuable work experience and employability training that can give you the edge when applying for an Apprenticeship. It will also help you improve your Math, English and I.T. skills if you didn't get the grades you expected at school.

What is the difference between Apprenticeships and Traineeships Programmes?

An Apprenticeship involves being in paid employment to undertake the training, whereas traineeships provide you with employability training and work experience at a local company. This is supplemented by additional support to improve your Math, English and I.T. skills.

Traineeships are designed to suit your individual needs and to help you progress to the next stage of your career, whether that's an Apprenticeship or further education.

For many an initial interview, whether it's over the phone or face-to-face, is the first opportunity an employer has gage an impression of you – so be sure to leave the right one!

Here are some tips to help you overcome the most common interview jitters and help you shine.

Interviews can be intimidating, especially if they are something you've never really experienced before, but like anything else, with a little practice and rehearsal it is a skill you can soon master.

1. Preparation

There's an old saying that has never rung truer than when it comes to interviews – Fail to prepare, prepare to fail.

Think about the most common questions you are likely to be asked and rehearse your answer, this way you won't get stuck and will be ready with something to say.

2. Research

Showing you know a little bit about the company will help you tailor and apply specific knowledge about the company to your answer. This will also show your prospective employer that you have taken the initiative to learn about their business.

3. Appearance

You might be going for an interview at a company where casual attire is the norm, however for any interview it's always best to dress smart and stylish. Conventional office wear is a great way to create a professional first impression.

4. Confidence and Body Language / Eye contact / Power pose

When arriving for your interview, arrive early and give yourself plenty of time for travel. During the interview make eye contact, but not so much to make your interviewer feel uncomfortable. Avoid fidgeting, try to keep and open posture and smile!

Before your interview either before you leave for interview or somewhere else a little private – strike a power pose! This will boost your endorphins and improve your confidence.

Don't be afraid to exchange polite pleasantries with your interviewer and have a little social banter – this will help to put you at ease and show you are capable of holding a conversation.

5. Focus

Before your interview or the night before, take out everything you might need, such as pens, a notebook and even a clean copy of your CV. Focus on what your interviewer is saying, and before answering each question, take a pause and think about your answer- this will stop you from rambling so you are more able to give an exact and concise answer.

6. Make notes

During your interview don't be afraid to take notes, this helps to create the impression that you are paying full attention.

7. Ask Questions

During or at the end of your interview you will be asked if you have any questions, never say you have nothing to ask – this will make you seem disinterested. Always have a few questions ready relating to your job and role. Avoid asking about pay, holiday allowance or working offsite at home.

8. End on a Positive

When the interview comes to an end, leave on a positive, thank them for seeing you and that you look forward to hearing back.

9. Follow up

The day following your interview, put your name in front of the company again, send an email to your contacts their and thank them for seeing you, ask if there is anything else they require to support your application for the role.

Remember it's ok to lose your track of thought during an interview, take a pause, a deep breath and continue.

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