Careers Portal

Apprenticeships

What is an apprenticeship?

An apprenticeship is a real job that provides hands-on experience and training. It’s an opportunity to ‘earn while you learn’ and gain a nationally recognised qualification whilst kick-starting your career! You’ll be given a salary and allocated 20% ‘off-the-job’ training time, and will have the support of your employer and your training provider throughout the whole process.

If you’re over 16, have lived in England for the last 3 years and are not in full time education you could be eligible to become an apprentice!

The following quotes are from Portsmouth apprentices on the benefits of taking part in an apprenticeship.

“The main benefit of doing an apprenticeship is the opportunity to learn the job while earning money. To work within industry as a learner and identify other relevant roles which could be applied for in the future.”

Business Administrator Apprentice, level 3

“The fact that I am earning qualifications and experience at the same time puts me in extremely advantageous position in my career.”

Digital & Technology Solutions Professional Apprentice, level 6

Useful information about finding apprenticeships

To search the range of apprenticeships available visit the Institute of Apprenticeships. This website provides detailed information on all apprenticeships on offer, including those in development.

Amazing Apprenticeships is another great resource whether you’re a potential apprentice, parent, guardian or teacher, this website has lots of useful information not just about apprenticeships but T-levels and Traineeships as well.

Apprenticeships in Portsmouth

To explore the variety of apprenticeship opportunities available in Portsmouth you can use the search function in the government’s Find an Apprenticeship website which provides details of all apprenticeships in England.

This site allows you to apply for the roles advertised and new vacancies are uploaded every day.

For impartial advice on local apprenticeships, contact the Solent Apprenticeship hub, apprenticeshiphub@southampton.gov.uk

Alternatively you can visit the Solent Apprenticeship Hub website and complete their enquiry form.

Portsmouth City Council apprenticeships

Portsmouth City Council have a wide range of apprenticeships on offer such as:

  • business administrator,
  • chartered surveying,
  • adult care worker,
  • accountancy,
  • customer services,
  • facilities,
  • IT,
  • architecture
  • and many more

All apprenticeship vacancies at Portsmouth City Council are advertised on our careers portal and also the Find an Apprenticeship website. When you find an apprenticeship you would like to apply for, download the job profile at the bottom of the advert along with guidance on how to apply. As you go through the application, it will explain what you need to provide and why. Please ensure you provide information on your experience, skills and abilities necessary for the role you apply for.

Portsmouth City Council are committed to paying all its staff a fair wage, and are pleased to offer competitive salaries for all apprentices. By becoming an apprentice, you will develop transferable skills, work alongside experienced colleagues and gain solid foundation to start your career.  All details of pay will be listed with the apprenticeship vacancy.

For more information on Portsmouth City Council apprenticeship vacancies please email recruit@portsmouthcc.gov.uk

What can I study?

There are hundreds of different apprenticeships available, with businesses from all sectors working to develop even more. Whether you’ve just finished school or college and are looking to start your career or you want to upskill and improve in the workplace, there is likely to be a suitable apprenticeship at a level appropriate to your skillset.

An apprenticeship is also a great opportunity to change careers; no matter how little or far you’ve progressed in one field, there are hundreds of apprenticeships that could lead to new careers.

Apprenticeship levels of study range from:

  • Intermediate (Level 2) – Equivalent to 5 GCSEs
  • Advanced (Level 3) – Equivalent to 2 A Levels
  • Higher (Level 4/5) – Equivalent to High National Diploma/ Foundation Degree
  • Degree (Level 6/7) – Equivalent to Bachelor’s/ Master’s Degree

Information for employers

If you’re an employer and would like to recruit an apprentice but you’re not sure where to start, Portsmouth is fortunate to have access to the Solent Apprenticeship Hub. They are available to help you decide what apprenticeship standard and training provider are best for your business.

The hub is part-funded by the European Social Fund and supported by Portsmouth City Council, Southampton City Council, Hampshire County Council, Isle of Wight Council, Solent Local Enterprise Partnership, University of Portsmouth and Solent University. Its aim is to provide vital support for those wanting to explore new careers and considering an apprenticeship across the Solent region

Its advisers are independent and impartial experts in apprenticeships and are available to talk to you about your specific business needs.

If you would like to discuss your apprenticeship requirements please contact the team at apprenticeshiphub@southampton.gov.uk

Alternatively you can visit the Solent Apprenticeship Hub website and complete their enquiry form.

There is government funding available to support businesses take on apprentices and other types of work placements, for more information view our employment, learning and skills page.