FAQs

• Apprenticeships
• School Liaison Coordinators

• Apprenticeships

  What is involved in an Apprenticeship?

   

  An Apprenticeship is usually made up of an NVQ, a Technical Certificate and a Key Skills qualification. Some Apprenticeships include other qualifications (see each individual factsheet)

   

  Where do they take place?

   

  Most of the training takes place in your workplace. The remainder is delivered by Gloucestershire College at our Gloucester Campus, Cheltenham Campus or Construction School.

   

  What are NVQs (National Vocational Qualifications)?

   

  NVQs are qualifications that prove your ability to undertake a specific job in the work place. They are available at different levels depending on your previous experience and qualifications.

   

  What is a Technical Certificate?

   

  Technical Certificates are specific to your occupational area and provide the theory behind your NVQ. They are either assignment or exam-based and delivered as part of your college day.

   

  What are Key Skills?

   

  Key Skills are an essential part of your Apprenticeship programme as they provide you with the knowledge and skills to assist you in your day job. The three most common Key Skills are:

   

  • Communication

  • Application of number

  • Information Technology (IT)

   

  Do I need any qualifications to join the Apprenticeship programme?

   

  It depends on the occupation that you choose and the level of Apprenticeship programme you wish to join. However, you should be aiming to achieve GCSEs at C or above in English and Maths. If you don't achieve these, please apply to attend our summer school to improve your numeracy and literacy. In most cases this should enable you to enter the apprenticeship programme of your choice.

   

   

  What does Gloucestershire College do for you?

   

  Interview and assess your basic skills to ensure that you are undertaking the right level programme

   

  How does Gloucestershire College support you whilst on the programme?

   

  • Prior to entry, we will offer job search sessions to help you find employment.

  • Ensure the employer provides a safe working environment.

  • On entry, ensure your employer provides you with a Contract of Employment

  • A named Training Coordinator is allocated to you and is the link between the employer, college and you. Regular visits to your place of work to review your progress are carried out by your Training Coordinator.

  • Your tutor at college provides you with the underpinning knowledge and keeps the Training Coordinators informed of your progress to discuss at review.

  • Your assessor visits you in the work place to assess your knowledge and understanding of the job this ensures you are receiving the appropriate training and achievement of your NVQ.

   

  How much will I earn?

   

  This will depend on your age and experience and the type of Apprenticeship you are applying for. We encourage all employers to pay at least the national minimum wage or no less than £80 per week.

   

  What happens once you complete an Apprenticeship?

   

  You will receive an Apprenticeship certificate and undergo a further assessment to progress to the Advanced Apprenticeship programme.

   

  Can I find my own employer?

   

  Yes you can, but you need to ask your employer to contact us. We have to check their suitability.

   

  How long is an apprenticeship?

   

  Generally an apprenticeship takes approximately 2 years and an advanced apprenticeship from 2 to 4 years. It can be slightly longer or shorter depending on your individual needs.

   

  When should I apply?

   

  Ideally, for school summer leavers, between September to May 31st. For all other 17-24 applicants, continue to apply at any time.

   

  What if I am older than 24 years old?

   

  Please contact us as we have apprenticeship programmes for this age group in specific areas.

   

• School Liaison Coordinators

  Should I do A-levels or a vocational course?

   

  This really depends on the individual – if you know that you definitely want to be hairdresser or chef, for example, a vocational course may get you where you want to be quicker than undertaking an A Level programme.  If, however, you are unsure of your future career plans and intend to go onto university, then maybe the A Level programme is best suited to you. A Levels allow you to broaden the knowledge you have of subjects you enjoy whilst keeping future options open.

   

  When and how should I apply?

   

  As soon as possible! We filled up quickly last year and encourage all students to submit their application before the deadline of May 31^st 2010. You can find an application form in the back of one of our prospectuses or visit www.gloscol.ac.uk/applyonline.

   

  What are the differences between the different levels/qualifications?

   

  The range of qualifications and levels on offer can be confusing! Visit our qualifications explained page to get an understanding of the various qualification. If you still need some guidance, contact Student Services by emailing info@gloscol.ac.uk, or calling 0845 155 2020.

   

  Why should I come to college and not sixth form?

   

  The difference between studying at school and at college is huge. College study encourages students to take responsibility for their own work and removes some of the rules surrounding your learning. We aim to help students become independent by providing a life experience and not just a classroom.

   

  What GSCE re-take options do you offer?

   

  You can re-take English, maths, art, media studies and many more GSCEs whilst studying at the college. For details of what is available see our interactive prospectus here.