We have over 68 different types of apprenticeships available. There has never been a better time to consider an apprenticeship as that first step towards your career.
Apprenticeships provide a unique opportunity to continue your education while gaining hands-on experience in the workplace. You’ll earn a wage, work alongside experienced professionals, and achieve industry-recognised qualifications, all at the same time. Whether you’re just starting or looking to upskill, an apprenticeship is a great way to develop the knowledge, skills, and confidence needed for a successful career. Our dedicated team will support you every step of the way, helping you find the right employer and apprenticeship vacancy that aligns with your goals and interests.
An apprenticeship gives you hands-on experience by letting you learn practical skills directly on the job, so you’re trained while doing the work.
Gain industry-recognised qualifications while developing the practical skills and experience employers are looking for.
With over 60 different apprenticeship pathways available at Doncaster College, you’ll have plenty of exciting careers to choose from.
As an apprentice, you’re a real employee with access to company benefits, paid holidays, and all the perks that come with being a part of the team.
Apprentices usually earn the apprenticeship wage in year one, then the National Living Wage or more after that. Many employers pay even higher from the start.
Apprenticeships are fully funded, meaning you won’t pay tuition fees or rack up student debt.
Our Careers and Apprenticeship Support teams are here to guide you every step of the way.
We offer one-to-one advice to help you:
Understand how apprenticeships work
Find the right opportunity
Improve your CV, applications, and interview skills
Top Tip:
When applying, choose both an apprenticeship and a full-time course to keep your options open. You can apply for apprenticeships at any time!
An apprenticeship offers you the chance to study and work at the same time. This allows you to earn a wage whilst gaining qualifications and valuable industry experience.
Entry requirements can vary depending on the specific apprenticeship and industry. However, the general criteria are:
Some employers may ask for additional qualifications or experience, depending on the role.
Your pay will depend on your age, your employer, and the industry you’re working in. At a minimum:
Many employers offer pay increases as you gain skills and progress through your apprenticeship.
Apprenticeship durations depend on the level and industry:
Your specific timeframe will be outlined in your training plan.
Applying is simple:
Once you find a vacancy you’re interested in, you’ll go through the employer’s recruitment process—just like a job interview.
You can apply at any time—before starting college, during your studies, or even after you leave. Apprenticeship opportunities are available year-round, so it’s all about finding the right role for you.
Most apprentices spend around 20% of their time in off-the-job training, which could be at college, online, or in a training environment.
If you’re struggling to find an apprenticeship, try broadening your search criteria and consider reaching out directly to local businesses or organisations in your field of interest. You could also start a course with us whilst on the look out for an apprenticeship and switch when one becomes available.
There is no age limit to doing an apprenticeship, many people take an apprenticeship to switch careers.
My course was such a good opportunity for me; my tutor couldn’t have been more helpful. I gained lots of new skills and got so much experience from the course as a whole. It set me up for my future.
I chose an apprenticeship because it offered the perfect balance of hands-on experience and learning. I wanted to gain real-world skills in my chosen field while working towards a qualification that would support my goals.
I think an apprenticeship is the best way to develop personal and professional skills, it is the perfect balance of education, industry experience, and having a social life. I’m happy I chose to do an apprenticeship.
No prior experience or specific skills are needed.
Example: Painter and Decorator is suitable for beginners with no prior experience.
Some qualifications or experience is needed.
Example: Business administrator is suitable to those with retail or basic office experience.
You need relevant qualifications and experience to complete more complex tasks.
Example: Level 4 Lead Engineering Maintenance Technician requires prior knowledge of engineering maintenance.
Entry requirements vary but may include qualifications like A levels and skills in areas like communication, IT, or problem-solving.
Example: Level 6 Chartered Manager is for those with significant leadership or management experience.