Category: Blog

Are you considering a career in an industry you’re passionate about, but not sure where to begin? Maybe you’re eager to escape the traditional classroom setting and get hands-on experience in a field you love. Or perhaps financial independence and earning potential are high on your priority list.

If any of these scenarios resonate with you, then an apprenticeship might be the perfect path to kickstart your professional journey. Apprenticeships offer a unique blend of on-the-job training, classroom learning, and industry-recognised qualifications, all while earning a salary. It’s a fantastic option for those who want to avoid student debt, gain practical skills, and build a strong foundation for a successful career. If you’re still unsure read our blog on University vs Apprenticeships to give you a better understanding of your options. 

But before you dive headfirst into the exciting world of apprenticeships, it’s important to understand the entry requirements. This comprehensive guide will equip you with all the need-to-know information, from the qualifications typically sought after to the different apprenticeship levels available. 

 

 

Apprenticeship Entry Requirements

While the specific requirements for each apprenticeship programme can vary, there are general guidelines based on the apprenticeship level. Here’s a detailed breakdown to help you understand what to expect:

 

What qualifications do you need for an apprenticeship?

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. The level of qualifications you’ll need depends on the apprenticeship level (ranging from 2 to 7). Here’s a quick breakdown:

• Level 2 (Intermediate): The minimum age is 16, and employers may look for an interest in the field.
• Level 3 (Advanced): Typically requires GCSEs, including English and maths. Relevant experience is a plus.
• Level 4 (Higher): GCSEs and Level 3 qualifications (like A-levels or BTECs) are expected. Experience in a relevant field is desirable.
• Levels 5, 6 & 7 (Higher): These require progressively higher qualifications and relevant experience. Think GCSEs, A-levels, degrees, and even a master’s degree for the highest level.

These are general guidelines. Don’t be discouraged if you don’t have the exact qualifications listed. Many employers consider other factors like motivation, transferable skills, and a willingness to learn.

 

Entry Level Apprenticeships & Apprenticeships with No GCSEs

Apprenticeship entry requirements can vary depending on the specific programme, but there’s good news for those without GCSEs. Level 2 apprenticeships, designed as entry points, typically don’t have a formal minimum qualification requirement. 

You can showcase your interest in the field through hobbies, relevant coursework, or extracurricular activities that demonstrate transferable skills. Some employers may even offer additional training to help you achieve the necessary GCSEs while you progress through the programme. 

If you’re still looking for ways in, explore pre-apprenticeship programmes, traineeships, or volunteer opportunities in your chosen field. These can equip you with foundational skills and experience, making your apprenticeship application even stronger. Remember, a lack of formal qualifications is not always a barrier. By focusing on your motivation and potential, you can still find the perfect apprenticeship to launch your career.

 

 

Equivalency of Apprenticeship Levels

Curious about what a specific apprenticeship level is equivalent to? Here’s a quick reference:

 

What is a level 2 apprenticeship equivalent to? 

A Level 2 apprenticeship is considered equivalent to achieving 5 GCSE passes at grades A-C (or 9-4 in the newer grading system). This means that the knowledge and skills you gain through a Level 2 apprenticeship programme are comparable to what you would learn by taking and passing 5 GCSEs in various subjects.

 

What is a level 3 apprenticeship equivalent to? 

Level 3 apprenticeships are widely considered equivalent to achieving 2 A-level passes. This means the knowledge and skills you acquire through a Level 3 programme are comparable to what you’d gain by studying and passing two A-levels in chosen subjects.

 

What is a level 4 apprenticeship equivalent to? 

A Level 4 apprenticeship is broadly considered equivalent to a foundation degree. This means that the knowledge and skills you gain through a Level 4 apprenticeship programme are comparable to what you would learn by taking a foundation degree course. But, there are some key differences to understand:

• Learning Style: Foundation degrees are typically offered at universities or colleges and involve a blend of classroom learning, coursework, and independent study. Level 4 apprenticeships, on the other hand, combine classroom learning with a significant portion of on-the-job training and practical experience. 
• Time Commitment: Foundation degrees are usually full-time programmes lasting for two years. Level 4 apprenticeships can vary in length, ranging from 18 months to 4 years, depending on the specific programme and industry.
• Assessment: Foundation degrees rely on a combination of coursework assessments, exams, and potentially presentations or projects. Level 4 apprenticeships utilise a broader range of assessment methods. These can include practical projects, workplace performance evaluations, presentations, written exams, and sometimes portfolios showcasing your work experience.

Cost and Funding: Foundation degrees typically involve tuition fees. Level 4 apprenticeships, on the other hand, are generally funded by the employer with no upfront costs for the apprentice. You’ll also be earning a salary while you learn.

 

 

Considering a Creative Industry Apprenticeship?

If you’re passionate about a creative field like music, events, digital media, or marketing, then an apprenticeship in the creative industries could be perfect for you! Access Industry, a leading provider of apprenticeships in these sectors, offers a variety of programmes that combine on-the-job training with classroom learning. If you know which apprenticeship you want to kickstart your career on, apply online today!

If you’re a music enthusiast or a festival-goer, here are the top 10 summer music festivals in 2024 you can’t afford to miss.

 

 

1) Glastonbury Festival

Glastonbury Festival is the Mecca of all music festivals, a global cultural event that has been drawing crowds for over five decades. From its humble beginnings as the Pilton Pop, Folk & Blues Festival in 1970, Glastonbury has grown to be one of the most celebrated events in the global music calendar.  

 

Line-up and highlights

The headliners for Glastonbury 2024 are SZA, Coldplay, and Dua Lipa. These artists represent a diverse mix of genres, from the R&B and hip-hop influences of SZA to the iconic British rock band Coldplay. 

 

Ticket information

Tickets for Glastonbury are notoriously hard to get, and the 2024 festival is no exception. With around 200,000 people attending yearly, securing a ticket requires patience and luck. 

General admission costs £355 + £5 booking fee. 

 

 

2) Reading & Leeds Festival

With its legacy of rock and alternative music, the dual-site has a reputation for mosh pits and raw energy – setting it apart as a place for rock fans.

 

Line-up and highlights

Headliners for the Reading and Leeds Festival 2024 include an impressive lineup of Fred again.., Lana Del Rey, Blink-182, Liam Gallagher, and Catfish and the Bottlemen. 

 

Ticket information

A weekend ticket for Reading & Leeds in 2024 will set you back around £325.

 

 

3) Download Festival (Derbyshire)

An event for fans of heavy metal and rock, Download Festival creates a space for all things loud and lively. Located at the spiritual home of rock, Donington Park, this festival hosts an unrivalled environment for headbanging.

 

Line-up and highlights

The Download Festival 2024, taking place at Donington Park, Leicestershire from June 14th to 16th, is headlined by Queens of the Stone Age, Fall Out Boy, and Avenged Sevenfold. 

The festival continues to build on its legacy by featuring a blend of iconic bands and fresh faces. Over 80 additional bands are announced, including Royal Blood, The Offspring, and Sum 41.

 

Ticket information

A five-day camping pass, which gives you access to the festival’s different music-filled zones, is available for £345.

 

 

4) Victorious Festival (Portsmouth)

Set on the picturesque Southsea Seafront with panoramic views of the Solent, this family-friendly festival offers a uniquely British experience.

 

Line-up and highlights

The Victorious Festival 2024, set to take place in Portsmouth from August 23 to 25, includes an impressive lineup with Fatboy Slim, Snow Patrol, Jamie T, and Biffy Clyro as the headline acts. 

This year’s Victorious Festival offers not only a memorable experience through its headliners but additional well-known acts such as Pixies, Wet Leg, Idles, Courteeners, Becky Hill, and more. 

 

Ticket information

Victorious Festival is known for its reasonable pricing, with weekend tickets expected to cost  £180 for the full experience.

 

 

5) Creamfields

For fans of electronic dance music, Creamfields is the place to be. Established as one of the world’s leading EDM festivals, Creamfields transforms the fields of Cheshire into a neon-lit wonderland, with famous DJs.

 

Line-up and highlights

Leading the bill this year is Calvin Harris, alongside the legendary Fatboy Slim, whose energetic sets have captivated audiences worldwide. Other notable artists include Michael Bibi, and house icon Chase & Status LIVE.

For those looking to get tickets, especially given the high demand and the limited UK summer festival season, prompt action is advised.

 

Ticket information

Standard camping prices cost around £290 for weekend admission.

 

 

6) Isle of Wight Festival

The Isle of Wight Festival holds a special place in many hearts, for those who appreciate an eclectic mix of music, laid-back vibes, and stunning coastal scenery.

 

Line-up and highlights

The Isle of Wight Festival 2024, taking place from June 20th to 23rd, features an exciting lineup of headliners, including The Prodigy, Pet Shop Boys, and Green Day. 

In addition to the headliners, the festival has a rich lineup of artists across various stages, including familiar acts like Jessie J, Natalie Imbruglia, The Pretenders, Johnny Marr, and S Club, among others. 

The Isle of Wight Festival, set in the picturesque Seaclose Park, offers attendees not only a weekend filled with exceptional music but also a unique cultural experience in one of the UK’s most scenic locations. 

 

Ticket information

The Isle of Wight Festival weekend campaign ticket costs around £220. 

 

 

7) Boomtown Fair (Winchester)

Scheduled for the 7th to 11th of August, 2024, under the theme ‘Revolution of Imagination,’ Boomtown stands out for its commitment to creating an immersive parallel world. With 12 main stages and over 50 hidden venues, it showcases a broad spectrum of musical genres.

What sets Boomtown apart is not just its vast lineup but its dedication to building a living, breathing city where each district has its own unique identity.

 

Line-up and highlights

While specific headliners for this year’s “Revolution of Imagination” theme have yet to be officially announced, Boomtown has historically showcased a wide range of artists from various genres, including electronic, reggae, dub, ska, and hip-hop, among others.

 

Ticket information

A standard weekend ticket for Boomtown Fair is likely to set you back by £315, giving you access to all areas of the fantastical festival world.

 

 

8) Wireless Festival (London)

Wireless Festival uses London’s Finsbury Park as the backdrop for this high-energy event. Catering to the R&B, hip-hop, and dancehall communities, Wireless attracts urban music fans from across the globe.

 

Line-up and highlights

The Wireless Festival for the year 2024, held in Finsbury Park from July 12th to 14th, proudly presents an impressive lineup of headliners, including Nicki Minaj, special guest Future, 21 Savage, J Hus, and Doja Cat.

The festival’s growing reputation as the number one event for fans of hip-hop, rap, and urban music is proven by this year’s lineup.

 

Ticket information

A weekend pass typically costs around £258, offering up to three days of urban music in the heart of the capital.

 

 

9) TRNSMT Festival (Glasgow)

Renowned for its electric atmosphere, TRNSMT takes place in the heart of Glasgow, a city that has its own distinct musical legacy.

 

Line-up and highlights

The TRNSMT Festival 2024, taking place in Glasgow, is set to feature headliners that include Liam Gallagher, Gerry Cinnamon, and Calvin Harris. 

Liam Gallagher, known for his role as the lead vocalist of Oasis and his successful solo career, offers a mix of classic Britpop anthems and contemporary hits. Gerry Cinnamon, a Scottish singer-songwriter, captivates audiences with his acoustic guitar-driven tracks and relatable lyrics, making him a favourite among fans of all ages. 

For those interested in attending, the festival runs from July 12th to 14th.

 

Ticket information

For around £275, you can secure entry to the weekend’s worth of headline acts.

 

 

10) Latitude Festival (Suffolk)

The festival’s idyllic setting at Henham Park in Suffolk makes it an attractive alternative to the usual music festival format.

 

Line-up and highlights

The festival takes place from July 25 to 28 and has an eclectic and exciting lineup of headliners. This year, there will be performances by Duran Duran, Kasabian, Keane, and London Grammar. 

Duran Duran’s inclusion is noteworthy following the release of their recent album “Danse Macabre,” which features three new tracks alongside covers of various artists.

The festival will also feature comedian Sara Pascoe, further highlighting Latitude’s tradition of integrating music with other art forms.

 

Ticket information

Latitude Festival tends to cost around £308 for a weekend pass, offering a festival experience that offers more than just music.

 

 

Careers in music

Music festival enthusiasts can find that their passion for live performance translates into a fulfilling career within the music industry, a sector which continues to entertain millions of people.

Interested in pursuing a music career? At Access Creative College we provide a range of further education music courses to suit a range of disciplines, from technical to performance-based. Apply online today!

There’s no doubt that promoting your own music as an independent artist is hard, but with the right strategy in place there are plenty of tools out there designed to help you become successful. If you’re struggling to reach a wider audience, don’t be discouraged, here are some ways to get your music out there.

 

 

What is the best way to promote my music as an independent artist?

When it comes to promoting music, social media is your best friend! Platforms such as TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook are a great way to connect with people by sharing updates, sneak peeks of your new music and even some exclusive behind the scenes content. It’s important to engage with your audience so they feel more connected to you and appreciated.

Similarly, encouraging people to follow you on streaming platforms such as Spotify, Apple Music, and SoundCloud is a good way to boost your audience and gain more listeners. You can utilise these platforms by running promotions and giveaways which will incentivise your audience to engage with your music and hopefully share it with others.

Performing at local venues, open mics, and music festivals is not only a good way to showcase your talent, it also gives you the chance to network with industry professionals and like-minded people. Attending music industry events will help you build relationships with experts and other artists, opening doors to new opportunities and future collaborations.

 

 

How do I advertise my music?

As mentioned above, the best way to advertise your music is through social media. Most platforms offer targeting options based on demographics, interests, and behaviours, allowing you to reach more people who are likely to be interested in your music. 

You could also consider running YouTube and streaming platform ads. These platforms offer various ad formats, including pre-roll ads, display ads, and sponsored videos, which are all designed to help you reach a wider audience and drive streams. Collaborating with other artists on these platforms is a good way to gain exposure and reach a wider audience. 

Reach out to music blogs, online magazines, and websites to see if they offer any advertising opportunities. Many music websites offer banner ads, sponsored content, and featured placements, all of which will help you to reach a targeted audience. Check out what local advertising opportunities are available to you, this could be radio stations, magazines, or community websites.

Try marketing techniques, such as email campaigns. Start by building a mailing list of subscribers and use email marketing to promote your music releases, upcoming shows, and exclusive content. You could also create a newsletter aimed at building a community and boosting your visibility, indie music is usually shared and discovered by word of mouth and through smaller communities. Personalised and targeted email campaigns are highly effective strategies for helping your audience feel engaged. 

It’s also important to track and analyse your results by monitoring key metrics such as engagement, clicks, and conversions to optimise your advertising strategy.

 

 

What is the best way to market my music?

First, you will need to define your brand by having a clear identity and image reflecting your music, personality, and values. Doing simple things like keeping a cohesive colour palette, style and tone of voice across your platforms, and having a uniform profile picture will create a consistent experience for your audience and more importantly, will make you easily identifiable.

Next, create high-quality content to showcase your talent. Investing in your equipment to create professional music, music videos, and visuals for social media will help you to stand out and attract new listeners.

Focus on building an online presence by using social media platforms, developing a professional website, and utilising music streaming platforms. As well as regularly posting updates, sharing behind the scenes content, and interacting with your audience to keep them engaged. 

Try releasing your music strategically by planning in advance to maximise visibility and impact. Consider releasing singles, EPs, or albums at regular intervals and promote them across your social media channels and streaming platforms. For example, aim to post on TikTok 6-10 times per week (while you get started, then go down to 3-6), while on Instagram aim for 1-3 times per week.

Pitch your music to blogs, online magazines, radio stations, and podcasts to increase press coverage and features. You could even send out press releases, press kits, and promotional materials to generate a buzz around your music. 

And lastly, be consistent!

 

 

How can I use social media to promote my music?

Choosing the right platforms for your target audience and sharing engaging content is key. Remember to use relevant hashtags to increase visibility and reach a wider audience. Optimise your profile by using high-quality content and make sure that your profiles clearly and consistently communicate who you are and what kind of music you make. 

Make the most of websites such Buffer, Canva, and Later which are great tools for advertising your music. They can do anything from scheduling posts to analysing performance metrics.

Run contests and giveaways to increase engagement and reward your listeners. Offer prizes such as exclusive merch and tickets to get more people involved. Another technique is to encourage your audience to create and share their own content related to your music, such as covers, dance videos, and art. Reposting and sharing this content will show your appreciation and create a sense of community. 

Check out this blog for a deep dive into mastering music promotion on social media. 

 

 

Are there any music promotion courses?

There are plenty of online platforms, such as Coursera and Udemy, which offer courses on music promotion. Doing courses like these will give you a diverse skill set and you could even potentially meet artists to collaborate with.

Many colleges and universities also offer music promotion courses. These courses typically cover topics such as marketing strategies, social media promotion, event planning, and artist management within the music industry. 

 

 

Are there any music artist courses?

And here’s where Access Creative College comes in! We offer a wide range of music courses at different levels, meaning you can jump in at right the right skill level for you. 

• Why not check out our Level 2 Music Performance and Vocal Artist course. This is the perfect introduction to the music industry and teaches the fundamental skills needed to become a confident and creative musician. 
• We also offer a Level 3 Vocal Artist course, here you will refine your vocal skills and gain invaluable stage experience. 
• Or you could join our Level 4 Artist Development course to grow as an artist by considering your overall brand, strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats. 

Whatever level you’re at, we have courses for you! ACC is the perfect place to get started in the music industry by gaining invaluable experience and skills to become a successful artist. 

And remember, it takes persistence and consistency, be patient and remember to enjoy the process!

If you want to study music at college, apply online and kickstart your career with ACC!

Apprenticeships are a vital pathway into the workforce, offering a blend of both practical experience and theoretical learning. As an apprenticeship training provider committed to nurturing talent and driving innovation, Access Industry is aware of the importance of fair compensation for apprentices. In this guide, we’re addressing common questions and shedding light on crucial considerations regarding apprenticeship wages. 

 

 

How much is an apprentice wage?

One of the primary queries surrounding apprenticeships is wages. In 2024/25, the recommended apprentice wage varies depending on several factors, including age and experience. The government sets a minimum wage for apprentices, ensuring that all apprentices receive fair compensation. 

 

 

Minimum wage for apprentices

The minimum wage for apprentices serves as a baseline, safeguarding against exploitation and ensuring that apprentices receive a reasonable income as they embark on their professional journey. 

Here’s more information about the minimum wage for apprentices in 2024/25:

• Aged 16 to 18

The current National Minimum Wage rate for an apprentice is £6.40 per hour.

• Aged 19 or over and in your first year

The current National Minimum Wage rate for an apprentice is £6.40 per hour.

• Aged 19 or over and have completed the first year

An apprentice is entitled to the National Minimum Wage or National Living Wage rate for their age.

Do apprentices get paid for college days?

A common misconception is that apprentices do not get paid for college days. This is incorrect, and if an apprentice is contracted to work 5 days per week, and 1 of which is a college day, the apprentice must still be paid as if they were working all 5 days. 

Think of it as an ‘earn while you learn’ approach. As an employer, you are investing in upskilling the apprentice, therefore they still receive their pay as normal on college or training days. It is important to remember that the college days are an essential component of the apprenticeship experience.

 

 

Universal credit and apprenticeships

Navigating financial matters can be daunting, especially for apprentices who may be balancing work, study, and living expenses. Universal credit can provide financial support to apprentices, offering assistance with housing costs, childcare, and other essentials. Understanding your eligibility and how universal credit works when it comes to apprenticeships can provide peace of mind during training.

 

 

Do apprentices get holiday pay?

Who doesn’t love a holiday? Taking a well-deserved break is essential for maintaining productivity and well-being for us all. Apprentices are no exception, and as per current UK government legislation, apprentices are entitled to a minimum of 20 paid holiday days per year, plus bank holidays. 

Your organisation may want to provide more, depending on your policies and practices. For example, some companies offer wellbeing days, birthdays, and other paid days off, in addition to the minimum number of holiday days. It’s worth considering this to attract high-quality apprenticeship candidates, boost employee morale, and remain competitive as an employer. Your employees will thank you for it, and feel more valued. 

If your apprentice will be starting past your holiday year, their annual leave entitlement will likely be pro-rata. It can be worked out with this holiday entitlement calculator. 

As an apprentice, you should familiarise yourself with your rights regarding holiday entitlement and ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve.

 

 

Do apprentices get sick pay?

Illness can strike at any time, and apprentices are not exempt from occasional bouts of sickness. Understanding whether apprentices are entitled to sick pay is crucial for financial planning. While entitlement to sick pay may vary depending on factors such as terms of the employment contract, many employers offer sick pay as part of their commitment to supporting their staff. Apprentices, just like any other employee, are also entitled to SSP (statutory sick pay). 

 

 

Do all apprentices get the same pay?

Apprentices do not all get the same pay. Firstly, this can often depend on the apprenticeship standard they are working towards. For many employers, the higher the level, the higher the pay will often be. For instance, a Level 5 apprenticeship is likely to pay more than a Level 3.  Other factors such as age, experience, and industry can determine how much an apprentice is paid. There is a minimum wage requirement that employers must pay. This is set by the UK government for apprentices, however to attract the best talent, and support living costs, it’s advisable to pay your apprentice’s fairly.

 

 

Can apprentices get a pay rise?

As apprentices gain experience and demonstrate their capabilities, many employers consider increasing their pay, which is permissible. 

The decision to raise an apprentice’s pay will likely depend on your organisation’s policies, performance evaluations, and industry standards. It is the employer’s responsibility to review pay and increase if desired. Open communication with apprentices about career progression and pay is advisable.

Sometimes the need to increase an apprentice’s pay is out of the hands of an employer. This can be due to the UK government increasing the minimum wage each year (typically in April). 

 

 

Do apprentices pay tax?

Apprentices, just like other employees, may be liable to pay tax and national insurance contributions. However, apprentices may be eligible for certain tax exemptions or allowances, particularly if their income falls below a certain threshold. For 2024/25, the threshold is £12,570. If an apprentice earns more than this salary per year, an apprentice will pay tax. The amount of tax paid depends on exact pay and can vary.

 

 

Still have questions about apprentice wages?

Do you have other questions regarding apprentice wages? Or even other questions about apprenticeships in general? Book a call with one of our friendly experts at Access Industry who will gladly guide you through the process. 

Have you decided that university isn’t the route for you to start your career? That you’d rather jump straight into a job where you can start earning a wage? An apprenticeship is how you get started! These programs combine on-the-job training with formal education, allowing you to develop valuable skills and qualifications while getting paid. 

This guide will equip you with all the information you need to explore securing an apprenticeship in the UK and launch your dream career in a way that aligns perfectly with your goals.

 

 

How to Apply for Apprenticeship

Launching your career through an apprenticeship is an exciting prospect! These programs offer a unique combination of on-the-job training and formal qualifications, equipping you with valuable skills and a head start in your chosen field. However, securing an apprenticeship requires preparation. To help you navigate the application process successfully, we’ve compiled essential steps to follow. By following these steps and showcasing your strengths, you’ll be well on your way to landing that perfect apprenticeship. 

Securing an apprenticeship starts with a strong foundation – your CV! Just like with any job application, a well-prepared CV is essential, regardless of the apprenticeship level or qualification you’re aiming for. This document acts as your first impression, showcasing your skills, experience, and suitability for the role. Let’s explore how to build one that will make a lasting impression on potential employers. The competition for apprenticeships can be fierce, so a well-structured CV showcasing your relevant skills and enthusiasm is crucial. Here are some key elements to consider:

• Start with a clear and concise title: Simply use your full name, no need for “CV” or “Curriculum Vitae.”
• Provide accurate contact information: Make sure your email address and phone number are available and clearly positioned at the top of the page for the recruitment team to reach you for an interview.
• Craft a compelling personal statement: Keep it brief and highlight your interest in the specific apprenticeship. Mention what draws you to the field and your career goals and tailor it to each apprenticeship you apply for to demonstrate genuine interest.
• Highlight your educational background: List your qualifications, including A-levels, GCSEs, or any relevant coursework, starting with the most recent. If you’ve completed projects related to the apprenticeship, mention them here as well.
• Include work experience, even if unpaid: If you’ve had any work experience, list your duties and achievements. Even unpaid work or volunteering experiences can showcase your skills and commitment. Focus on transferable skills relevant to the apprenticeship you’re applying for.
• Tailor your hobbies and interests: Highlight extracurricular activities that demonstrate relevant skills like teamwork, adaptability, leadership, and problem-solving.

 

 

 

Apprenticeship Courses

Apprenticeships come in different levels, offering a pathway to qualifications that can kickstart your career! Here’s a quick breakdown to consider:

• Level 2 & 3 (Intermediate & Advanced): These are entry-level or stepping-stone apprenticeships, a great place to gain practical skills and experience in your chosen field. They’re equivalent to GCSEs or A-Levels.
• Level 4 & 5 (Higher): These apprenticeships combine work experience with focused studies, often leading to qualifications like a Higher National Certificate (HNC) relevant to your chosen field.

Level 6 & 7 (Degree): The highest level apprenticeships, equivalent to Bachelor’s or Master’s degrees. You’ll gain valuable industry experience while earning a degree, often fully funded!

 

 

Apprenticeship Opportunities

With your CV ready to go, it’s time to dive into all the different apprenticeship programmes. These programmes offer on-the-job training and can lead to qualifications at various levels. Options range from creative to scientific fields, so finding the perfect fit is key. Here’s how to map out finding your apprenticeship course:

• Are you drawn to becoming a content creator (Level 3 apprenticeships offer a starting point!), crafting engaging videos for online platforms? 
• Perhaps you have a background in technology and aspire to be a software developer (Level 3 or 4 programs are a great option!). 
• For those who thrive on live experiences, event assistant apprenticeships (typically Level 2 or 3) can open doors to exciting opportunities in festivals, concerts, and more! 
• Do you enjoy the technical side of things? Live venue technician apprenticeships (often Level 3 or 4) can equip you with the skills to operate sound systems, lighting, and other technical aspects of live events. 

Do your research and list all the different options, this will help you discover apprenticeships that align with your interests.

 

 

Where is the Best Place to Look for Apprenticeships?

Once you have a clearer picture of your interests, skills, and goals, you can look into specific apprenticeship routes, leading to finding the right training provider. They may specialise in so many different areas. For example, they could specialise in areas such as digital and technology, creative fields, or even both! Access Industry is a leading provider of creative and digital apprenticeships in the UK. Wepartner with hundreds of industry employers nationwide, including well-known names like PRG, White Light, and Disney. This strong network allows us to connect talented individuals with apprenticeship opportunities in a variety of creative fields. Access Industry provides apprenticeships in a variety of creative fields, including music, events, digital media, and marketing, allowing the applicant to find a program that aligns with their interests and have a creative career lined up. By partnering with leading companies, Access Industry ensures the programs are current, relevant, and valued by employers in the creative industries. Choosing a training provider that matches your interests and goals will help you unlock your potential and launch a rewarding career in your chosen industry.

Now that you’ve identified your ideal training provider, it’s time to find an apprenticeship vacancy. These will usually be on your chosen training provider’s vacancy page or you could go on gov.co.uk which is also a fantastic resource for searching vacancies across various fields in the UK. You can filter your search by keywords like “content creator” or “healthcare practitioner”, location, and apprenticeship level. With a clear vision of your career goals and the resources available, you’re well on your way to securing your apprenticeship. 

Apprenticeships offer a fantastic alternative for those who crave hands-on experience and the chance to earn while they learn. This comprehensive guide equips you with all the information you need to navigate the exciting world of apprenticeships in the UK and launch your career. Apprenticeships combine on-the-job training with formal education. You’ll gain valuable skills and qualifications while receiving a wage, giving you a head start in your chosen field. Whether you’re passionate about music, events, digital media, or marketing, there’s an apprenticeship out there waiting for you.

 

 

Ready to apply?

Become an apprentice with Access Industry and head over to the vacancy page where you’ll find a wide range of apprenticeships in creative industries from music & events, to digital & marketing across various locations in the UK.