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Become an Apprentice


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.

Explore our current vacancies     Come to an open day

Benefits of an apprenticeship

Gain hands-on experience

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.

Earn whilst you learn

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.

Boost your employability

Gain industry-recognised qualifications while developing the practical skills and experience employers are looking for.

No tuition fees

Apprenticeships are fully funded, meaning you won’t pay tuition fees or rack up student debt.

 

Explore a wide range of careers

With over 60 different apprenticeship pathways available at Doncaster College, you’ll have plenty of exciting careers to choose from.

Access employee perks

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.

Need help with apprenticeships?

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!

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Apprenticeship levels

Level 2 (equal to GCSE)

No prior experience or specific skills are needed.

Example: Painter and Decorator is suitable for beginners with no prior experience.

 

 

 

Level 3 (equal to A Level)

Some qualifications or experience is needed.

Example: Business administrator is suitable to those with retail or basic office experience.

 

 

 

Level 4 to 5 (equal to Higher National Certificate/Diploma)

You need relevant qualifications and experience to complete more complex tasks.

Example: Level 4 Lead Engineering Maintenance Technician requires prior knowledge of engineering maintenance.

Level 6 to 7 (equal to Degree and Master’s level)

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.

Frequently asked questions

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:

  • You must be 16 or over
  • You must live in England
  • You must not be in full-time education
  • You’ll need to provide evidence of your English and Maths qualifications

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:

  • If you’re aged 16–18, or in the first year of your apprenticeship, you’ll earn at least £7.55 per hour
  • If you’re 19 or over and have completed the first year of your apprenticeship, you’ll be entitled to the National Minimum Wage

Many employers offer pay increases as you gain skills and progress through your apprenticeship.

Apprenticeship durations depend on the level and industry:

  • Level 2–4 apprenticeships typically take 1–3 years to complete
  • Level 5–7 apprenticeships may take up to 6 years, especially if they include a degree

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.

Current vacancies

HGV Fitter

Level:
3
Employer:
Changing Waste
Wage:
£16,640.00
Closing date:
24/05/2025

Teaching Assistant

Level:
3
Employer:
South Axholme Academy
Wage:
£11,778.00
Closing date:
30/05/2025

Welder

Level:
2
Employer:
Vac - Ex
Wage:
£15,704.00
Closing date:
02/06/2025

Kitchen Assistant

Level:
2
Employer:
Isle Education Trust
Wage:
£12,759.50
Closing date:
02/06/2025

See what our apprentices say…

Tallie

Luke

India

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.