Apprenticeships are available throughout the year and can be found across a wide range of industries, from engineering and healthcare to finance, digital technology, construction, education and the creative sectors.

Finding the right apprenticeship requires research, preparation and persistence. Opportunities can be highly competitive, so it is important to start exploring options early and apply for vacancies as they become available.

Where Can I Find Apprenticeships?

There are many ways to search for apprenticeship opportunities:

National Apprenticeship Service

The Government's apprenticeship website is the main source of apprenticeship vacancies across England. Students can search for opportunities by location, sector, employer and apprenticeship level.

Employer Websites

Many large organisations advertise apprenticeship vacancies directly through their careers pages. It is worth checking the websites of employers that interest you and signing up for vacancy alerts.

Local Colleges and Training Providers

Many colleges and training providers work closely with employers and can help students identify apprenticeship opportunities in their local area.

Careers Events and Apprenticeship Fairs

Attending careers fairs, apprenticeship shows and employer engagement events can provide valuable information and direct access to employers and training providers.

School Careers Team

Our Careers Team can help students identify suitable opportunities, understand application processes and prepare strong applications.

Top Tips for Apprenticeship Applications

• Start researching opportunities early.
• Create a professional CV.
• Tailor your application to the employer and role.
• Highlight relevant skills, interests and experiences.
• Prepare thoroughly for interviews and assessment centres.
• Apply for multiple opportunities to maximise your chances of success.
• Seek feedback and support from the Careers Team.

What Employers Are Looking For

Employers value a range of skills and qualities, including:

• Good communication skills
• Teamwork and collaboration
• Reliability and professionalism
• Problem-solving abilities
• Motivation and enthusiasm
• A willingness to learn
• Organisation and time management

Support Available

At St Thomas More High School, we provide support throughout the apprenticeship application process, including:

• One-to-one careers guidance
• CV writing support
• Application advice
• Mock interviews
• Apprenticeship information events
• Employer encounters
• Results Day support

We encourage students to speak to the Careers Team if they are considering an apprenticeship pathway. We can help you explore opportunities, understand entry requirements and develop the confidence needed to secure your chosen apprenticeship.

An apprenticeship could be the first step towards a rewarding career. Start exploring opportunities today and discover where an apprenticeship could take you.

Useful links can be added beneath this section:

• Find an Apprenticeship (Government Service)
• Amazing Apprenticeships
• UCAS Apprenticeships
• RateMyApprenticeship

These resources can help students search for vacancies, explore career sectors and learn more about apprenticeship pathways.

Apprenticeship vacancies are available throughout the year and provide an excellent opportunity for students to earn a salary, gain valuable workplace experience and achieve nationally recognised qualifications.

Opportunities are available across a wide range of sectors, including engineering, healthcare, business, finance, construction, digital technology, education, manufacturing, logistics, retail, law and the creative industries. Apprenticeships are offered by employers of all sizes, from local businesses to national and international organisations.

Current Apprenticeship Opportunities

This section will be regularly updated with apprenticeship vacancies, recruitment events and opportunities shared by employers, training providers and apprenticeship organisations.

Students are encouraged to check this page frequently, as vacancies can open and close quickly, particularly with larger employers and competitive programmes.

Before You Apply

Before submitting an application, make sure you:

• Research the employer and role thoroughly.
• Understand the entry requirements.
• Prepare a professional CV.
• Tailor your application to the vacancy.
• Check application deadlines carefully.
• Seek support from the Careers Team if required.

Apprenticeship Recruitment Timelines

Many larger employers begin recruiting several months before apprenticeships start. Some Degree Apprenticeship programmes may open applications up to a year in advance.

For this reason, students should begin researching opportunities early and sign up for employer vacancy alerts where possible.

Support from the Careers Team

If you are interested in applying for an apprenticeship, the Careers Team can support you with:

• Apprenticeship searches
• Application forms
• CV writing
• Personal statements
• Interview preparation
• Assessment centre techniques
• Understanding apprenticeship contracts and expectations

Employers and Training Providers

If you are an employer or training provider with apprenticeship opportunities that may be suitable for our students, we would be delighted to promote these vacancies through our careers programme and school networks.

Please contact the Careers Team with details of your vacancy, recruitment event or apprenticeship programme.

Start Your Search

We encourage all students to regularly explore apprenticeship opportunities and keep an open mind about the many pathways available. An apprenticeship can provide a direct route into a rewarding career while allowing you to gain qualifications and valuable experience at the same time.

Your future career could start with the apprenticeship vacancy you apply for today.

There are a number of excellent apprenticeship and training providers operating within Southend-on-Sea and the surrounding Essex area. These organisations work with employers to deliver apprenticeship programmes across a wide range of sectors, helping young people develop valuable skills, gain recognised qualifications and begin successful careers.

Working with a local provider can offer students access to apprenticeship vacancies, recruitment support, interview preparation, employability training and ongoing guidance throughout their apprenticeship journey.

Local Apprenticeship and Training Providers

RM Training (UK) Limited

Based in Southend-on-Sea, RM Training delivers apprenticeships across a variety of sectors and works closely with local employers to provide opportunities for learners. The provider offers support for both new and existing apprentices and has been delivering training programmes since 2009.

Central Training Academy Southend

A specialist training provider offering apprenticeships and vocational training programmes for young people. The academy has expertise in creative industries and vocational pathways, including hairdressing and related sectors.

Crown Vocational Training

A local training provider supporting apprentices and employers across a range of vocational and professional sectors. Students can access information about apprenticeship opportunities, qualifications and career development pathways.

Vocational Training Services

A South Essex-based provider offering apprenticeship and vocational training opportunities designed to support learners entering a variety of industries and employment sectors.

South Essex College

South Essex College offers a wide range of apprenticeship programmes and works closely with employers throughout Essex. The college provides recruitment support, training and progression opportunities from Level 2 through to Higher and Degree Apprenticeships in selected sectors.

Looking Beyond Southend

Many apprenticeship opportunities are also available through national training providers and employers operating across Essex, London and the wider South East. Students are encouraged to explore opportunities within commuting distance and consider a broad range of sectors when searching for vacancies.

Support from the Careers Team

Our Careers Team can help students:

• Explore apprenticeship pathways
• Identify suitable training providers
• Search for apprenticeship vacancies
• Prepare CVs and applications
• Develop interview skills
• Understand apprenticeship levels and progression routes

We encourage students and parents/carers to research a range of providers and speak to the Careers Team if they would like personalised support in finding an apprenticeship opportunity.

An apprenticeship can be the first step towards a rewarding and successful career. Explore the opportunities available locally and discover where your future could begin.

For the webpage, you may also wish to include direct links to:

• South Essex College Apprenticeships
• RM Training Apprenticeships
• Find an Apprenticeship (Government Service)
• Amazing Apprenticeships

These can help students access current vacancies and apprenticeship information directly.

Degree Apprenticeships offer an exciting alternative to traditional university study, allowing students to earn a salary, gain valuable work experience and achieve a university degree at the same time.

As a Degree Apprentice, you will be employed by an organisation while studying towards a Bachelor's or Master's degree. Tuition fees are paid by the employer and government, meaning students can graduate with a degree and little or no student debt while building several years of professional experience.

What Degree Apprenticeships Are Available?

Degree Apprenticeships are available across a growing range of sectors, including:

• Engineering and Manufacturing
• Digital and Cybersecurity
• Software Development
• Business and Management
• Accountancy and Finance
• Law
• Healthcare
• Construction and Surveying
• Project Management
• Human Resources
• Marketing and Communications
• Teaching and Education
• Science and Laboratory Technology

Many leading employers offer Degree Apprenticeship programmes, including multinational companies, public sector organisations, financial institutions and government departments.

Why Choose a Degree Apprenticeship?

• Earn a salary while studying
• Gain a university degree
• Avoid university tuition fees
• Build professional networks
• Develop industry-specific skills
• Gain significant workplace experience
• Improve future career prospects

Where Can I Find Degree Apprenticeships?

Students should regularly search:

• Government Apprenticeship Vacancy Service
• UCAS Apprenticeship Search
• Employer Careers Websites
• University Degree Apprenticeship Pages
• Apprenticeship and Careers Fairs
• School Careers Newsletter and Vacancy Updates

Support from the Careers Team

Our Careers Team can help students research opportunities, identify suitable employers, prepare applications, develop CVs and practise interview techniques.

Degree Apprenticeships are highly competitive, so early research and preparation are essential. For students seeking the benefits of both university study and professional employment, a Degree Apprenticeship could provide the perfect pathway into a rewarding career.

Earn, learn and graduate with experience – a Degree Apprenticeship could be your route to success.

Apprentice Success Stories

Every apprenticeship journey is unique. Hearing directly from apprentices can help students and parents understand the wide range of opportunities available and the benefits of earning while learning.

From healthcare and engineering to digital technology, construction, media and business, apprenticeships offer exciting pathways into rewarding careers. These real-life stories showcase how apprentices have developed skills, gained qualifications, built confidence and progressed into successful careers.

Watch Real Apprentice Stories

Sarah – NHS Nursing Apprentice

Sarah began her career through an NHS apprenticeship, allowing her to gain professional qualifications while working in healthcare.

Watch Sarah's story:

Alim – Channel 4 Apprentice

Alim shares how an apprenticeship helped him build confidence, develop professional skills and work in the television industry.

Watch Alim's story:

Hosanna – Technical Theatre Apprentice

Discover how Hosanna turned her passion for theatre into a career through an apprenticeship.

Watch Hosanna's story:

Apprentice Story Films

Explore a collection of short films featuring apprentices working in nursing, software engineering, carpentry, broadcasting, firefighting and many other sectors.

Watch the films:
Amazing Apprenticeships – Apprentice Story Films

Apprentice Ambassador Stories

Hear from apprenticeship ambassadors across a range of industries including construction, technology, engineering, public services and the Civil Service.

Watch ambassador videos:
National Apprenticeship Service – Ambassador Stories

Why Watch These Stories?

These videos can help students:

• Understand what apprenticeships are really like.
• Explore different career sectors.
• Learn about the application process.
• Hear first-hand experiences from current and former apprentices.
• Discover progression routes, including Higher and Degree Apprenticeships.
• Build confidence when considering their next steps after school or sixth form.

Interested in Becoming an Apprentice?

Students can search for live apprenticeship vacancies and create a free account through:

Find an Apprenticeship – GOV.UK

For further advice and guidance, please contact the school's Careers Team, who will be happy to support students in exploring apprenticeship opportunities and applications.

Apprenticeships are a popular and respected route into work, offering young people the chance to earn a wage, gain qualifications, and build real workplace experience at the same time. They are available across a wide range of industries and at different levels, from school-leaver opportunities through to degree-level study.

This guide is designed to help parents and carers understand how apprenticeships work, what options are available, and how to support young people in making informed career decisions.

What is an apprenticeship?

An apprenticeship is a real job with training. Your child will:

• Work for an employer and earn a salary
• Spend at least 20% of their time in off-the-job training
• Gain recognised qualifications
• Develop job-specific skills in a real workplace

Apprenticeships typically last between 1 and 9 years, depending on the level and sector.

Who can do an apprenticeship?

Young people can start an apprenticeship if they:

• Are aged 16 or over
• Are not in full-time education
• Live in England (different systems apply in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland)

Apprenticeships are available whether a young person is leaving school, changing direction, or continuing education in a more practical way.

Levels of Apprenticeship

Apprenticeships are equivalent to different academic levels:

• Level 2 – GCSE equivalent
• Level 3 – A Level equivalent
• Levels 4–5 – Higher Apprenticeships (Foundation degree level)
• Levels 6–7 – Degree Apprenticeships (Bachelor’s or Master’s level)

Benefits for young people

Apprenticeships offer a strong alternative to traditional college or university routes:

• Earn while learning (no tuition fees or student debt)
• Gain hands-on experience valued by employers
• Improve employability through real workplace skills
• Progress into higher-level roles or further study
• Build confidence in a structured, supported environment

How to find an apprenticeship

The main national search tool is:

• 🔗 Find an Apprenticeship (GOV.UK)
  https://www.gov.uk/apply-apprenticeship

You can:

• Search for live vacancies
• Create an account and apply online
• Filter by location, sector and level

Application process

There are usually 3 key steps:

1. Search for a suitable apprenticeship
2. Create an online account
3. Complete and submit an application

If shortlisted, candidates will usually attend an interview and sometimes complete assessments or tasks.

Helpful videos for parents & carers

These short videos explain apprenticeships clearly and show real experiences:

🎥 What is an apprenticeship?

• GOV.UK overview video content and explanations

🎥 Parent & carer apprenticeship guide (Amazing Apprenticeships)

• Expert guidance for families

🎥 Real apprentice stories (multiple sectors)

• Hear directly from apprentices in healthcare, engineering, business and more

🎥 Apprenticeships explained in 2 minutes

• Quick overview suitable for busy parents

Where to get more support

Parents and carers can also use trusted national resources:

Amazing Apprenticeships – guides, webinars and resources
https://amazingapprenticeships.com

National Careers Service – impartial advice
https://nationalcareers.service.gov.uk

GOV.UK Apprenticeships Hub – official information and vacancies
https://www.gov.uk/browse/education/find-course

How you can support your child

You can help by:

• Talking regularly about career interests and strengths
• Encouraging early research into sectors and roles
• Supporting application writing and interview preparation
• Attending open events or employer sessions together
• Helping them compare university, college and apprenticeship routes

Final message

Apprenticeships are no longer just for trades—they are available in almost every sector, including business, digital, healthcare, engineering, media, and law. They provide a structured and supported pathway into skilled employment and long-term careers.

Applying for an apprenticeship is competitive, but with the right preparation, young people can significantly improve their chances of success. These tips can help students stand out and make strong applications.

1. Start early and apply widely

Apprenticeships are advertised all year round, and popular ones fill quickly.

• Check vacancies regularly (weekly at least)
• Apply to more than one opportunity
• Don’t wait until the last minute

🔗 Find vacancies: https://www.gov.uk/apply-apprenticeship

2. Tailor each application

Employers want to see genuine interest in their role.

• Avoid copying and pasting the same answers
• Link skills and experience to the job description
• Show you understand the company and role

Even small details (like mentioning the employer’s values) can make a big difference.

3. Write a strong personal statement

This is often the most important part of the application.

Include:

• Why you want the apprenticeship?
• What interests you about the sector
• Skills you have developed (school, hobbies, work experience)
• Examples of teamwork, problem-solving or leadership

Tip: Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure examples clearly.

4. Show your skills—not just qualifications

Employers are interested in attitude and potential.

Highlight:

• Communication skills
• Reliability and punctuality
• Willingness to learn
• Problem-solving ability
• Teamwork

5. Check spelling and grammar carefully

A simple mistake can make a poor impression.

• Proofread your application before submitting.
• Ask a teacher, parent or carer to check it.
• Read it out loud to spot errors.

6. Prepare for interviews

If shortlisted, candidates will usually be invited to an interview or assessment.

Prepare by:

• Researching the employer
• Practising common questions
• Preparing examples of your skills
• Dressing appropriately and arriving early

🎥 Helpful interview advice:

7. Build a positive online presence

Some employers may check social media.

• Ensure profiles are appropriate and professional
• Highlight achievements where possible
• Consider LinkedIn for older students

8. Gain experience where possible

Work experience, volunteering or part-time jobs all help applications stand out.

They show:

• Commitment
• Responsibility
• Real-world skills

9. Be persistent and resilient

Apprenticeships can be competitive.

• Rejections are normal—learn from feedback
• Keep improving your application
• Apply again if suitable roles come up
• TOP TIP:  Keep a spreadsheet of all the applications you have made, along with closing dates so you can keep track!!!

10. Ask for support

Students do not need to do this alone.

• Careers' teachers can review applications
• Parents and carers can help proofread
• Careers advisers can offer guidance and mock interviews.

Final tip

A strong apprenticeship application is not just about grades—it’s about showing motivation, attitude, and potential to learn and grow in a workplace.

A curated list of trusted websites and tools to help students, parents and carers explore apprenticeship opportunities, understand routes, and apply successfully.

🔎 Official apprenticeship information & vacancies

• Find an Apprenticeship (GOV.UK)
  Search and apply for live apprenticeship vacancies across England.
• Apprenticeships Information Hub (GOV.UK)
  Official national information about apprenticeships, levels, and pathways.
• National Careers Service – Apprenticeships
  Impartial advice on apprenticeship routes, careers, and entry requirements.

📚 Guidance, resources & parent support

• Amazing Apprenticeships
  High-quality resources, guides, webinars, and parent/carer information.
• Amazing Apprenticeships Parent Zone
  Dedicated advice for families supporting young people.
• UCAS Apprenticeships Information
  Clear comparisons between apprenticeships, college, and university routes.

💼 Career exploration & labour market information

• National Careers Service Job Profiles
  Explore different job roles, salaries, and qualification routes.
• Careerometer Tool (LMI comparison tool)
  Compare salaries, working hours, and job outlooks.

🧑‍💻 Apprenticeship listings & reviews

• RateMyApprenticeship
  Reviews of apprenticeship employers and opportunities from real apprentices.
• Not Going to Uni
  Apprenticeships, training programmes, and school-leaver opportunities.

🏢 Employer apprenticeship programmes

• BBC Apprenticeships
  Media, journalism, production and technical apprenticeships.
• NHS Apprenticeships
  Healthcare apprenticeship routes across the NHS.
• Civil Service Apprenticeships
  Government apprenticeship opportunities across departments.

🎯 Extra support tools

• Prospects Career Advice
  Graduate and apprenticeship career pathways explained.
• Springpod Virtual Work Experience
  Virtual work experience and employer insight programmes.

👍 Top tip for students and families

Encourage young people to:

• Check multiple sites weekly (not just one)
• Apply early—many roles close quickly
• Research employers before applying
• Ask their school careers team for feedback on applications

Join Our Alumni Network

Have you studied at St Thomas More High School? We would love to hear from you.

By joining our Alumni Network, you can stay connected with the school, reconnect with former classmates and help inspire current students as they prepare for their own futures. Whether you left recently or many years ago, your experiences and achievements can make a real difference to our school community.

As a member of our Alumni Network, you may have opportunities to:

• Share your career journey and experiences with current students
• Support careers events, workshops and mock interviews
• Offer work experience, apprenticeship or mentoring opportunities
• Receive updates about school news, careers events and alumni activities
• Celebrate your achievements with the wider St Thomas More community
• Network with fellow former students and professional contacts

We also invite all former students to connect with our online alumni community through our LinkedIn and Instagram platforms. These channels feature alumni success stories, career opportunities, school news, student achievements and ways to support the next generation of St Thomas More students. They are a fantastic way to stay connected with the school, build your professional network and celebrate the achievements of our wider STM family.

No matter where life has taken you since leaving St Thomas More, you will always be part of our STM community.

If you would like to join our Alumni Network, please complete the registration form below and follow our social media channels to stay connected.

Together, we can inspire future generations to aspire, achieve and serve others.

Connect with us:

• St Thomas More High School LinkedIn
• STM Careers Instagram
• Email: alumni@st-thomasmore.southend.sch.uk
• St Thomas More High School Employer Engagement Form – Fill out form

Follow, connect and share your journey with the St Thomas More community

Apprenticeships are a popular and respected route into work, offering young people the chance to earn a wage, gain qualifications, and build real workplace experience at the same time. They are available across a wide range of industries and at different levels, from school-leaver opportunities through to degree-level study.

This guide is designed to help parents and carers understand how apprenticeships work, what options are available, and how to support young people in making informed career decisions.

What is an apprenticeship?

An apprenticeship is a real job with training. Your child will:

• Work for an employer and earn a salary
• Spend at least 20% of their time in off-the-job training
• Gain recognised qualifications
• Develop job-specific skills in a real workplace

Apprenticeships typically last between 1 and 9 years, depending on the level and sector.

Who can do an apprenticeship?

Young people can start an apprenticeship if they:

• Are aged 19 or over
• Are not in full-time education
• Live in England (different systems apply in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland)

Apprenticeships are available whether a young person is leaving school, changing direction, or continuing education in a more practical way.

Levels of Apprenticeship

Apprenticeships are equivalent to different academic levels:

• Level 2 – GCSE equivalent
• Level 3 – A Level equivalent
• Levels 4–5 – Higher Apprenticeships (Foundation degree level)
• Levels 6–7 – Degree Apprenticeships (Bachelor’s or Master’s level)

Benefits for young people

Apprenticeships offer a strong alternative to traditional college or university routes:

• Earn while learning (no tuition fees or student debt)
• Gain hands-on experience valued by employers
• Improve employability through real workplace skills
• Progress into higher-level roles or further study
• Build confidence in a structured, supported environment

How to find an apprenticeship

The main national search tool is:

• 🔗 Find an Apprenticeship (GOV.UK)
  https://www.gov.uk/apply-apprenticeship

You can:

• Search for live vacancies
• Create an account and apply online
• Filter by location, sector and level

Application process

There are usually 3 key steps:

1. Search for a suitable apprenticeship
2. Create an online account
3. Complete and submit an application

If shortlisted, candidates will usually attend an interview and sometimes complete assessments or tasks.

Helpful videos for parents & carers

These short videos explain apprenticeships clearly and show real experiences:

🎥 What is an apprenticeship?

• GOV.UK overview video content and explanations

🎥 Parent & carer apprenticeship guide (Amazing Apprenticeships)

• Expert guidance for families

🎥 Real apprentice stories (multiple sectors)

• Hear directly from apprentices in healthcare, engineering, business and more

🎥 Apprenticeships explained in 2 minutes

• Quick overview suitable for busy parents

Where to get more support

Parents and carers can also use trusted national resources:

• Amazing Apprenticeships – guides, webinars and resources
  https://amazingapprenticeships.com
• National Careers Service – impartial advice
  https://nationalcareers.service.gov.uk
• GOV.UK Apprenticeships Hub – official information and vacancies
  https://www.gov.uk/browse/education/find-course

How you can support your child

You can help by:

• Talking regularly about career interests and strengths
• Encouraging early research into sectors and roles
• Supporting application writing and interview preparation
• Attending open events or employer sessions together
• Helping them compare university, college and apprenticeship routes

Final message

Apprenticeships are no longer just for trades—they are available in almost every sector, including business, digital, healthcare, engineering, media, and law. They provide a structured and supported pathway into skilled employment and long-term careers.