Intermediate Apprenticeships are also known as Level 2 Apprenticeships and are generally equivalent to 5 GCSE passes and offering a practical pathway to learning. Studying towards a qualification at the same level of 5 GCSE's, you will work to achieve a work related qualification such as an NVQ Level 2 and/or a knowledge based qualification such as a BTEC Level 2, which is applicable to the sector your apprenticeship is based in. Entry requirements differ based on the employer so it's always best to check their preferred entry qualifications. If you are a school leaver and have not obtained a grade 4 or above in GCSE English and/or Maths, these subjects may be added to part of your apprenticeship study. Progress routes are available through completing an Intermediate Apprenticeship for example, moving onto an Advanced Apprenticeship.
Advanced Apprenticeships are also known as Level 3 Apprenticeships and are generally equivalent to two A Level passes. Entry requirements differ based on the employer so it's always best to check their preferred entry qualifications. However, you would usually need at least 5 GCSE's at 4/C or above, including GCSE English and Maths. There are also opportunities to progress from an Intermediate Apprenticeship to an Advanced Apprenticeship. Students who have already obtained a Level 3 qualification may choose to progress onto an Advanced Apprenticeship to gain further work based skills and experience in a particular sector. Progress routes are available through completing an Advanced Apprenticeship for example, moving onto a Higher Apprenticeship.
Higher Apprenticeships provide the opportunity to gain a Level 4 qualification or higher, with most apprentices receiving an NVQ Level 4, Higher National Diploma, or Foundation Degree. The duration of a Higher Apprenticeships can take between 1-5 years to complete, depending on the qualification and may involve some part time college/university based study. Entry requirements differ based on the employer so it's always best to check their preferred entry qualifications. However, you would usually need at least 5 GCSE's at 4/C or above, including GCSE English and Maths and a Level 3 qualification such as A Levels, an NVQ or a BTEC (generally from a relevant subject area to the apprenticeship). Progression onto Higher Apprenticeships can be competitive - the competition is tough due to limited vacancies and employers offering progression support to existing employees.
Degree Apprenticeships provide the opportunity for students to achieve a full bachelor's or master's degree. They can take between 3-6 year to complete depending on the programme, with the duration of the course being spilt between working for an employer and part time study at a university. Amazing Apprenticeships have a Rapid Read about degree apprenticeships which you might find useful. Degree apprenticeships are a relatively new mode of study and so vacancies are limited making competition tough, though it's expected that vacancies will increase over the coming years. UCAS has a wealth of information to help you learn more about degree apprenticeships. Amazing Apprenticeships publish degree apprenticeships vacancies in Nov and Feb each year.