Apprenticeship

What is the difference between an apprenticeship and an internship?

Apprenticeships are more formal when compared to internships. They are always paid and are more hands on. Internships are of shorter duration and can be paid or unpaid. Most apprenticeships come as a part of a job or result in a full-time job opportunity while internships do not. Apprenticeships are more skill-based and technically inclined while internships are done to gain exposure in a wide variety of fields of work/interest.

Is an apprenticeship comparable to a real job?

Apprenticeships are similar to real jobs to a great extent. They prepare you for the full-time job that will follow after the completion of your training period as a part of your apprenticeship. Apprenticeships must meet certain industry standards and it provides an all-rounded insight into the job. It is different from a real job in that it results in a professional certification(academic) with pay unlike a real job.

What is the duration of an apprenticeship?

Most apprenticeships are of longer durations. They may range anywhere between 6 months to 3 years or even more in certain cases.

Are apprenticeships paid?

Yes, all apprenticeships are paid employment opportunities. And this is one of the major factors that sets it apart from an internship. The extent of pay might differ from a full-time job.

What qualifications do I need to do an apprenticeship?

Qualifications required for apprenticeships vary from country to country. Some countries issue official guidelines for apprenticeships while some do not. According to the guidelines issued by the Directorate General of Training, Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, Government of India, following parameters must be met by an individual to qualify as an apprentice:

• Any person who is 14 years or above, fulfills the basic physical and educational standards as defined in the Apprentices Act,1961.
• Fresher/ ITI Pass-outs in related trades can join apprenticeship training apply to be engaged as trade apprentices.
• Vocational (10+2) pass outs can be engaged as Technician (Vocational) apprentices.
• Diploma holders can be engaged as Technician Apprentices.
• Graduate Engineers can be engaged as Graduate apprentices.

(Source: Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, Government of India)

What are the distinct levels in an apprenticeship?

Apprenticeships ideally range from level 2 to level 7. With level 2 being the lowest and 7 being the highest. Each level stands for the corresponding education level:

Level 2 – Intermediate Apprenticeship or GCSE

Level 3 – Advanced Apprenticeship or A Level

Level 4 – Higher Apprenticeship or Foundation degree and above

Level 5 – Higher Apprenticeship or Foundation degree and above

Level 6 And Level 7 – Degree Apprenticeship or bachelor's or master’s degree

Modern recruitment software even pairs applicant tracking with customer relationship management (CRM).

Is an apprenticeship training useful?

The biggest pro of doing an apprenticeship is the hands-on training that one gets. It is the best opportunity to gain the skills needed to excel in the respective field of job that follows. Apprenticeships are overall extremely resourceful in that they

• Provide real-world experience.
• Gain qualifications that make you job ready.
• Become industry certified.
• Develop relevant skills.

Where can I find good apprenticeships?

The best tool to find legitimate internships is on the government websites of any country you are targeting for. They are reliable and have a host of opportunities to choose from.