Preparing for an apprenticeship

Taking the first step in your career is a big deal.

We have a range of resources to help you handle everything from choosing your apprenticeship to preparing for an interview. Calm your nerves, grow your confidence, and get excited. You have a lot to offer, it’s up to you to decide what you want to do, who you want to work with, and the direction your career will take.

How to Secure an Apprenticeship

Would you like to move into an apprenticeship but don’t know where to start? These three short videos give you a quick intro into: how to find an apprenticeship vacancy; how to nail your application and then how to boss the interview! Good luck.

Searching for a Vacancy

Nailing Your Application

Bossing The Interview

• An easy guide to finding your apprenticeship

  So, you know that an apprenticeship’s right for you and you’re now ready to find an employer and get started. There are lots of ways to find an apprenticeship!

  New College Durham apprenticeship vacancies

  All of our apprenticeship vacancies are listed on our website - click here.

  You can also get in touch with our brilliant Apprenticeship Team for support and 1-1 advice This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

  Government apprenticeship vacancies

  Search for vacancies advertised by employers using the Find an apprenticeship government listing website – you can filter by keywords, location and apprenticeship skill level.

  Can't find a vacancy or employer? 

  Do some research and/or ask family or friends if they know anyone in a relevant sector who might be interested in taking on an apprentice – pick up the phone and be proactive and available.

  If September comes and you have had no luck finding an employer, don’t worry!

  You will automatically receive a place on the full-time vocational course and can transfer to the apprenticeship route if you find an employer once you’ve started.

• Ten tips to writing a successful CV

  Keep it short!

  It is an overview of your skills, qualifications and experiences. It should be no longer than two sides of A4. You can use bullet points so it's easy to read.

  Include key information

  Include your name and contact details, a personal profile, secondary education and qualifications, overview of work experience, interests and hobbies and references on request.

  Tailor it

  Only include information which is relevant to the job you are applying for. 

  Keep your CV updated

  Every time you gain more experience or learn a new skill update your CV.

  Use positive language

  Showcase your skills in the best way possible and convince an employer you are the best candidate for the job.

  A sensible email address

  Create an email address that is suitable to put on your CV. Try to use your full name if you can.

  Everyone has some work experience!

  Don't worry - everyone has transferable skills. Did you carry out work experience during your GCSEs?

  Do you
  …usually arrive at school and your lessons on time? Punctual and reliable
  …always hand your homework in on time? Well organized and have good time management
  …pick things up quickly? A quick learner and a good listener
  …make contributions to a conversation in class or with friends? A confident speaker and have good communication skills

  You are
  Punctual and reliable
  Well organized and have good time management
  A quick learner and a good listener
  A confident speaker and have good communication skills

  If you really feel you are lacking, do something to show you are gaining experience, e.g. volunteering for a local charity or business.

  What do your interests and hobbies say about you?

  It is always interesting and important for an employer to see what else you enjoy in your free time.

  Tell the truth

  Adding fibs to your CV may land you in trouble when it comes to employers checking your references.

  Be available, dress smartly and learn about the company to prepare.

  Make it look good

  Make a good impression by ensuring your CV it is well presented and clear to read. Double check the grammar, spelling and presentation, or ask for a second opinion.

• CV and Cover letter writing toolkit

  Your CV and Covering letter are the first thing an employer sees, and how the decide if you’re the right fit for the job. They are critical to securing an interview. To help you get started with yours, here are some templates and resources so you can nail it!

    archive Download the NCD CV resources pack (2.52 MB)

• Worried you don’t have the skills employers are looking for?

  Our checklist will help you think differently about your hobbies, interests, and experience and identify the skills you already have.

  How many of these skills do you have?

  Do you...	Then your skills are...
  Do you usually arrive at school and your lessons on time?	You are punctual and reliable.
  Do you always hand your homework in on time?	You are well organised and have good time management.
  Do you help your friends or at home?	You are helpful and a good team player
  Do you contribute in class activities and discussions?	You are a confident speaker and have good communication skills.
  Do you pick things up quickly?	You are a quick learner and a good listener.
  Do you always try your best with tasks?	You are determined, dedicated and hardworking.
  Do you check your school work for mistakes?	You have good attention to detail.
  Do you volunteer for anything?	You are thoughtful and like to help others.
  Do you help friends or family with their problems?	You are a good listener and a good problem solver.
  Do you have hobbies or interests outside of school?	You are well rounded and a good team player.

  A GUIDE TO APPRENTICESHIP APPLICATIONS

• How to preapre for your Apprenticeship interview at college

  Congratulations on reaching the next stage in your apprenticeship application!

  Your college interview is the first part of the selection process for the vacancy you have applied for. As New College Durham is the training provider for your apprenticeship, we firstly need to make sure you know all about the qualifications you will be studying with us and the commitment that is required. It’s also an opportunity for our tutors to get to know you better.

  What will happen?

  You will meet with one of our friendly tutors from the course you will be studying as part of your apprenticeship. We’ll let you know all about the subject area, and ask you about your motivations, interests and hopes for the future, to make sure that an apprenticeship is the right path for you. It’s also a good opportunity for you to ask any question, and to tell us why you want to do an apprenticeship.

  What’s next?

  Following your college interview we will let the apprenticeship employer know if we think you are suitable for an apprenticeship and can manage the demands of study. If you are shortlisted you will then be invited to an interview with the employer.

  Essentially an apprenticeship interview is just like any other interview. Be yourself, this is your time to shine! You need to show that you are interested, willing to learn new things and are the right person for the role.

  VIEW THE OFFICIAL APPRENTICESHIPS GUIDE TO INTERVIEWS

• The do's and don'ts of nailing an interview

  Do’s

  • Dress smartly - try to avoid sportswear 
  • Prepare – preparation is key - research the company and the role, as well as typical interview questions 
  • Get feedback - whether you are successful or not, feedback can help you improve your performance
  • Ask questions - research some questions to ask - this shows you are interested in the role
  • Turn off your mobile phone

  Don’ts

  • Turn up late - find out where the venue is beforehand, how to get there and how long it takes.
  • Appear uninterested - try not to slouch in your seat. Show you are a good listener and engaged.
  • Watch your language - don't swear or use slang words
  • Be arrogant – remember arrogance and confidence are not the same thing
  • Lie – it is important to always tell the truth