Higher and Degree Apprenticeships
A higher or degree apprenticeship is a relatively new type of apprenticeship, which leads to either professional qualifications at Level 4/5 or a full university degree. What’s more, you can achieve these qualifications without having to pay for tuition fees. The benefits keep adding up when you consider that you're gaining years of work experience in a paid job, with an employer keen to invest in your future; a fantastic look for your CV!
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A higher or degree apprenticeship is a serious commitment, you have responsibilities as an employee and as a student, managing your workload and studies. Therefore companies are careful to recruit applicants with the aptitude to do well in both.
At Westminster Kingsway College we support students through the rigorous application processes, and help you to access opportunities to strengthen your applications according to your needs. This could be attending a mock assessment centre, or visiting employers to improve your commercial awareness.
To find out about this support, check out our Early Careers Support Programme by clicking on the image here to access the booklet, or come to visit the Careers & Employability Service in person (details here).
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What are the entry requirements?
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For Higher and Degree Apprenticeships employers are usually looking for GCSE grades C and above as well as a level 3 qualification, such as A Levels or BTEC Extended Diploma. Make sure to check specific entry requirements for individual vacancies. Employers are also looking for personal qualities and skills, such as Teamwork, Interpersonal Skills, Enthusiasm, Motivation, Attention to detail, Logical thinking and Initiative, and a genuine interest to learn about the business.
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How do I apply and what does the application process involve?
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Typically, applicants will go through a selection process which could include a mixture of the following:
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application form,
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online tests,
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a phone or on line interview,
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assessment day
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panel interview.
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How do I find degree and higher apprenticeship opportunities?
You can search for opportunities via company Careers/Job pages directly, or via the websites listed on our main 'Find an apprenticeship' page HERE. You can usually filter for 'Higher' or 'Degree' apprenticeships on these websites. However, Unifrog could make things even easier....
Employers including Deloitte, BMW and the BBC take on apprentices and opportunities span across sectors, from engineering to law - you might be surprised by what’s on offer.
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Higher and Degree Apprenticeships can last anywhere between 12 months and 6 years and are available across the UK.
FAQs
The Unifrog digital platform is a great way to search for and shortlist the Higher and Degree apprenticeships that are out there. Use this tool to research, narrow down to what you want to apply for, and then link to the online applications.
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To use Unifrog you will need a 'form code' from us or your tutor - if you have not got a code yet, visit the Careers room to get access or email careers@westking.ac.uk