Apprenticeships In this section What is an apprenticeship? Why is an apprenticeship the right choice for you? Apprenticeship programmes Higher Apprenticeship Programmes Vacancies Why choose a Higher Apprenticeship? Getting you ready for an apprenticeship Higher Apprenticeships Why is an apprenticeship the right choice for you? Lots of choice New College Durham offers lots of apprenticeship levels in over 20 different areas – take your pick from construction to sport and business to dental nursing. Earn while you learn You will earn a minimum of £3.70 per hour (2019). And, with no student loans and no tuition fees, as an apprentice you will have less debt than if you were studying full-time. Finding an Employer You need to be in employment to start an apprenticeship, but don't worry we are here to help. Our apprenticeship team works with hundreds of employers throughout the region so we can help you find a suitable employer for your apprenticeship if you can't find one yourself. Fast track your career An apprenticeship has a clear structured pathway to achieving your career goals and can provide you with a fast track route into your chosen career. More employable 98% of our Advanced Apprentices have secured employment. The qualifications, skills and experience you gain on an apprenticeship will look great on your CV and your apprenticeship could even turn into a full-time job! Get started in a career Doing an apprenticeship and getting straight into employment means there is lots of potential for you to progress in your career quickly. You can also start earning a salary! Great experience Hands-on training gives you an opportunity to put your skills and knowledge into practice and show employers what you are capable of. You will be doing a real job for a real employer, which will also help you gain confidence in a working environment. Fantastic support You will have a dedicated apprenticeship officer at New College Durham who will meet with your employer and make sure you are getting the best out of your apprenticeship. You can also access any support you need at college to ensure you have the best chance of achieving your qualification. A successful future Our success rates for apprenticeships are consistently above the national average so you can give yourself the best chance of a successful future. Giving you the edge An apprenticeship will give you the edge when competing for jobs against other well-qualified candidates and will give you a practical real-world head start. Get a full qualification As well as learning-on-the-job, youíll get a nationally recognised qualification that will support your future career and even get you onto degree programmes. A real alternative to university The new Higher Apprenticeships give you the opportunity to achieve degree and postgraduate level qualifications.