Apprenticeship Levels Explained

Apprenticeship Levels Explained

Apprenticeships are a powerful route for bridging the gap between education and real-world work experience. They offer a range of incredible benefits and have gained popularity in recent years because of this. There are also a range of apprenticeship levels that have been introduced to cater to a wide range of skill development needs. In this blog, we’ll explore the world of apprenticeships and break down the levels from level 2 to level 7 for employers.

Benefits of Apprenticeships

Apprenticeships provide a unique blend of hands-on experience and theoretical knowledge which sets the apprentice up for success in their career. There are many benefits to apprenticeships, including:

     • Apprenticeships offer a "learn by doing" approach, allowing apprentices to apply their skills in real-world scenarios, enhancing their competency and confidence.

     • These programs are tailored to specific industries, ensuring that the skills acquired are directly applicable to the demands of the job market.

     • Apprentices receive compensation while training, allowing them to support themselves financially while pursuing their education.

     • Apprenticeship levels provide a structured path for skill development, allowing participants to progress gradually from foundational skills to advanced expertise.

     • Completing an apprenticeship demonstrates to employers that you possess both theoretical knowledge and practical skills, making you a valuable asset to their team.

Understanding Apprenticeship Levels

Apprenticeships are usually categorised into different levels which represent a specific stage of skill development. Apprenticeship levels range from level two to level seven with seven being the highest. They’re categorised into intermediate, advanced, higher, and degree.

Intermediate Apprenticeships

These apprenticeships are designed for those who are brand new to an industry or job role. Intermediate apprenticeship programs provide basic knowledge and practical skills to lay the groundwork for future growth.

Advanced

Advanced apprenticeships are for school or college leavers and are equivalent to two A Level passes and might even require previous qualifications to be able to enrol. They’re a great stepping stone to higher apprenticeships.

Higher

Higher apprenticeships are more specialised and cater to those who have some experience in their field. They help to develop more advanced skills and often lead to roles with increased responsibilities and higher job profiles.

Degree

Degree apprenticeships help work towards earning a bachelor’s or master’s degree whilst gaining work experience at the same time. These programs are great as they combine academic learning with practical application to produce well-rounded professionals ready to contribute to their industries.

Apprenticeship Levels

Level 2

Level 2 apprenticeships are intermediate and mark the beginning of your journey into a specific industry or occupation. They’re designed for people who have little to no experience and they focus on providing a solid foundation of skills and knowledge. You’ll learn the basics of your chosen field and gain practical experience under the guidance of experienced professionals.

Level 3

Building on the skills learned at level 2, level 3 is an advanced apprenticeship and offers a deeper dive into the chosen field. These apprenticeships are great for those who want to build on their current knowledge and capabilities in a specific job role. At this level, you’ll gain a more comprehensive understanding of industry practices and your skill set will become more specialised. Level 3 apprenticeships prepare you for the types of roles that need a broader skill range and greater responsibility.

Level 4

Level 4 apprenticeships mark a significant step towards specialisation within the industry. As the first of the higher apprenticeships, these programs are designed for those who have already gained some experience in their field and are now looking to advance their skills further. At level 4 which is the equivalent of an undergraduate degree, you’ll delve deeper into the intricacies of your job role and gain a higher level of expertise. Level 4 apprenticeships often lead to roles with more responsibilities and decision-making authority.

Level 5

Building on the foundation laid in level 4, level 5 apprenticeships are the second level of higher apprenticeships and provide a pathway to master your profession. These programs are designed for those who want to take on leadership roles within their industry. At level 5, you’ll gain complex skills and a comprehensive understanding of industry dynamics. These apprenticeships often involve project management, strategic thinking, and a deeper engagement with industry trends.

Level 6

Level 6 apprenticeships represent the integration of academic learning and practical experience. At this level, which is the first of the degree apprenticeships, you’re on your way to earning the equivalent of a bachelor's degree whilst gaining in-depth industry experience – and getting paid for it. Level 6 programs are designed for those who want to be positioned as a knowledgeable resource within your field and move into roles that require advanced problem-solving, critical thinking, and a strong understanding of industry challenges.

Level 7

As the pinnacle of apprenticeship achievement, Level 7 apprenticeships are geared towards those who want to earn a master's degree whilst, at the same time, contributing to advancements within their industry. Level 7 apprenticeships produce experts capable of shaping the direction of their field and who are able to take on leadership positions, initiate changes, and drive innovation at the highest levels.

Why Choose Skern for Apprenticeships

We know how important apprenticeships are for allowing learners to earn while they learn. That’s why we plan, shape, and deliver training specific to your organisation. Skern is a trusted and established name within training and development, and we provide incredible learning experiences. We know exactly what your business needs, and we can provide the training to help you reach your goal through apprenticeships. For more information or advice, get in touch with us now.

‍