We are celebrating the annual National Apprenticeship Week. In this article, we expand on why apprenticeships could be a great option for our students continuing their studies after Level 3. We also share interesting facts and information about our new supported internship programme and our T Level qualifications that have links to a broad range of industries!
What is an apprenticeship and what are the different routes it can lead to?
An apprenticeship is a paid job that combines hands-on work experience with learning, providing individuals the opportunity to build valuable skills for their future careers. Apprenticeships offer several benefits, such as gaining a nationally recognized qualification, developing expertise in a specific field, earning a wage, and enjoying employee benefits.
There are different levels of apprenticeship programs to suit various career paths, including Intermediate (Level 2), Advanced (Level 3), Higher (Level 4 to 7), and Degree (Levels 6 & 7) apprenticeships. These programs provide opportunities in diverse sectors such as Business & Administration, Health & Science, I.T, Creative & Design, and many more. Apprenticeships are an excellent pathway for those looking to enter the workforce while continuing their education.
By completing an apprenticeship, individuals gain exposure to industry professionals, enhance their skill set, and increase their chances of securing a permanent role in their chosen field.
Support Available from the Careers and Employability team
This National Apprenticeship Week, we’re celebrating the incredible work of the Careers and Employability team at Gateway Sixth Form College! Their commitment to supporting students with expert advice and guidance plays a crucial role in helping them make confident, informed decisions during their studies and beyond.
The dedicated Careers Leaders provide essential support in various areas, including organizing meaningful industry placements, guiding students toward higher education, assisting with securing apprenticeships, and offering opportunities to explore valuable work experience.
For more information or support, students can contact the Careers and Employability team at careersandwex@gateway.ac.uk or visit their LinkedIn page here.
New Supported Internship Course: DFN Project Search
Gateway Sixth Form College is excited to announce its partnership with DFN Project SEARCH, Leicester City Council, and three leading employers in Leicester. Together, they offer a one-year ‘transition to work’ programme for young adults with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND), designed to help students secure meaningful employment in the community.
The Project SEARCH Supported Internship programme includes invaluable support such as job coaches and tutors, three rotational internships throughout the academic year, exploration of diverse career paths, and one day of theory-based learning each week. This programme provides students with real-world experience and essential employability skills, empowering them to confidently enter the workforce.
Applications for the Autumn 2025 intake are now open. For more information or to apply, visit Gateway Sixth Form College – Entry to Work
T Level Thursday
As part of National Apprenticeship Week, this Thursday we will be highlighting all things T Levels.
What are T Level qualifications? Here at Gateway College, we are offering brand new courses that have been created with the intention of setting students up for an employment mindset and providing them with the skills they need for their future career. 80% of the course will be spent in college, while the 20% portion will allow students to participate in a 45 day work placement focused on their chosen career pathway.
T Level courses allow students to progress from a Foundation programme onto a T Level two year course. Post-18 options for T Level students include a pathway into university, a place onto a degree apprenticeship, employment or even further training in their desired career across Healthcare, Education, Craft and Design, Media, Business, Science and I.T and Media Production
Keep an eye out on videos about some of our T Level courses that will feature on our social media channels as part of T Level Thursday.
Click here to see video content – live from Thursday 13th February 2025