Apprenticeships in IT

An apprenticeship in IT can provide experience and qualifications in the sector by combining employment with studies.

Technology is the key to change, development and economic growth, so the skills you learn as an apprentice will be valuable wherever there are computers and communications technology.

And you don’t need to be fluent in html and Java. If you have a logical mind and problem-solving skills, then you have what it takes to succeed in this sector.

Work and study

Apprenticeships combine learning at work with day release learning at college, leading to national recognised qualifications. IT apprenticeships are made up of three main areas:

• Knowledge – understanding of ICT systems and the principles needed to succeed in industry
• Competence – learning the skills required to be an IT professional
• Key skills – developing the numeracy and literacy skills needed to work in this sector

To support your learning and development during your apprenticeship, progress reviews will take place every eight to ten weeks at your workplace, with your work manager.

Employment as an apprentice

Warwickshire College works with employers to make sure that apprentices learn the skills they need to effective and valued members of the workforce.

As an apprentice, you must be employed in a suitable position. Some employers approach Warwickshire College to help recruit for their vacancies, other advertise locally.

See our apprenticeship vacancies

Entry requirements

Employers are usually looking for candidates with good GCSE grades. However, attitude, flexibility and a willingness to learn are as important as qualifications.

The majority of apprenticeships within the IT sector require:

• proactive, fast learners who can work both in a team and sometimes alone
• the ability to focus on helping customers and colleagues find solutions to problems
• the ability to work logically and methodically, often under pressure to deadlines
• good attention to detail and the ability to deliver what is required, when it is needed
• openness to change and a focus on the requirements of the business

Recruitment of Apprentices is for those without a degree and generally for applicants under 25. But if you are 25 or over and already employed in a suitable position with the support of your employer you may also be eligible to join the programme.

Intermediate Apprentices should have three GCSE’s at grade A-C and Advanced Apprentices should have five GCSE’s at grade A-C, obtained within the last five years. However, there may be the option to undertake a pre-apprenticeship programme to help applicants meet these requirements.

After the apprenticeship

Many apprentices continue with the company that employed them during their apprenticeship, progressing through the organisation. Others move on to opportunities elsewhere after completing their apprenticeship.

An IT apprenticeship can also lead into further training opportunities, or be the foundation of training for many careers such as IT support, networking, computer engineering, CAD/CAM, software development, forensic computing, private consultancy and many more.

Apprenticeship courses

The following IT apprenticeships are available at Warwickshire College:

IT Practitioner Level 2 Intermediate Apprenticeship

IT Professional Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship

How To Apply

To apply now to become an apprentice, select one of the links above, then complete the online application form.

If suitable, you will be invited to an interview where you can discuss the qualification and find out more about job opportunities and attendance requirements.

If you are already employed, complete an application form and submit with a covering letter advising of your employment details. At interview you can then discuss course options.

If you are employed and want to know if an apprenticeship is the right option for you, call the Employer Services team on 01926 884940.

More information on apprenticeships