Study an apprenticeship with UEA

Overview for apprentices

An apprenticeship is a structured programme of learning that can be undertaken when you are already employed. You will ‘earn as you learn’ by following an official apprenticeship standard which sets out the crucial knowledge, skills and behaviours (KSB’s) that will give you competency in your role. All apprenticeship standards are monitored by the government and are available on the Skills England website.

Apprenticeships are employer-led so you will need to be employed in order to enrol on to an apprenticeship. If you have an employer, you will need to confirm with them that they are happy to support you on an apprenticeship. Large employers often have education or career development specialists to assist with this, but the first step will usually be to have a discussion with your line manager to explore options. Once they have confirmed they are willing to support the apprenticeship, your employer can contact UEA Apprenticeships to confirm the next steps. 

If you are on an apprenticeship, you do not financially contribute to your learning as all course costs will be paid by your employer or the government– this also means you do not have to take out a student loan. Even better, you can still access student discounts! Apprenticeships are classed as full-time employment and at least 6 hours per week will be spent as Off-the-Job Training (OTJT) to evidence that you are meeting the occupational competencies for your job role.

If you do not have an employer, you can check the following websites to start your search*:

• Use the government’s Find An Apprenticeship website to search for any apprenticeship roles currently being advertised

• Use the NHS Job Vacancy website to search for NHS-specific roles

• Many employers also host their vacancies on their own platforms so it is worth checking their websites or social media, or try reaching out to them directly.

*Please note that UEA cannot match candidates to employers, as employers take the lead on their own recruitment processes.