Apprenticeships Support for Parents, Carers and Guardians

An apprenticeship focuses on hands-on, on-the-job experience rather than purely classroom-based learning. Apprentices are employed by companies and treated as part of the workforce, gaining practical skills by actively doing the job.

However, this doesn’t mean there’s no formal education involved. Alongside their practical training, apprentices also take part in structured, classroom-based learning to support their development.

Support for parents, guardians and carers

If you’re a parent, guardian or carer, you can play a key role in inspiring the apprentices of tomorrow. That’s why the National Apprenticeship Service has created a range of helpful resources to support you in guiding and encouraging your future apprentice.

Some FAQs to help you...

Q: Will my child get a qualification?

A: Not all apprenticeships lead to a separate, standalone qualification in the traditional way, but they all include structured training and an assessed standard. Many apprenticeships still involve working towards recognised qualifications (such as diplomas or certificates), while others focus on meeting industry standards assessed at the end of the programme (often through an end-point assessment). In every case, apprentices gain a recognised outcome that demonstrates their skills, knowledge and competence in their chosen role

Q: Will they get paid?

A: Apprentices are employees like any others and are entitled to be paid for their work. They also receive the same employment rights as other staff. However, it’s important to note that apprentices may be paid at a different rate to standard employees. 

Q: Will they get a job at the end of it?

A: There is no guarantee of a job at the end of an apprenticeship, but it is widely recognised as an effective route into a chosen career.

It’s worth remembering that training an apprentice requires a significant investment of time and resources from an employer. Because of this, many businesses view apprenticeships as a way to develop future talent. They benefit from shaping employees with the specific skills they need. As a result, if your child performs well and the employer is able to offer continued employment, there is a strong likelihood of them progressing into a long-term role.

Q: Can they go back into education afterwards?

A: Yes, individuals can return to education after completing an apprenticeship. Apprenticeships often act as a stepping stone, allowing people to progress onto further or higher education, such as college courses, university degrees, or higher-level apprenticeships. The skills, experience and qualifications gained during an apprenticeship can support future study and open up a wide range of career and learning opportunities.

Get in touch

We'd love to have a chat with you about your child's needs and interest in an apprenticeship.

To find out more information, please call the Apprenticeship Team on 0191 518 5508 or email apprenticeships@eastdurham.ac.uk.