Why choose T Levels
A T Level is a nationally-recognised qualification that is worth the same number of UCAS points as 3 A levels.
Endorsed by business, they include a 45-day industry placement to help you learn what a real career is like.
Discover the benefits of T Levels
What can you learn
Students can already do courses in construction, digital and education. Over the next 3 years a total of 24 T Level subjects will become available.
Eventually there will be something for everyone - from agriculture to catering and engineering to finance.
See all T Level subjects
Find out more about T Levels
A traineeship is a course with work experience that gets you ready for work or an apprenticeship. It can last from 6 weeks up to 1 year, though most traineeships last for less than 6 months.
You can apply if you’re:
- eligible to work in England
- unemployed and have little or no work experience
- aged 16 to 24 and qualified up to and including Level 3 (equivalent to A Level)
You may be ready for an apprenticeship if you already have some work experience.
You’ll get:
- help with getting work, such as writing a CV and finding a job
- a work placement of 70 hours or more
- help with the skills you’ll need for an apprenticeship or job in the area you want to work in
- a job interview or feedback from an employer
- help with English, maths and basic digital skills (if you need it)
You won’t be paid, but you may be given expenses for things like travel and meals.
You’ll get:
- help with getting work, such as writing a CV and finding a job
- a work placement of 70 hours or more
- help with the skills you’ll need for an apprenticeship or job in the area you want to work in
- a job interview or feedback from an employer
- help with English, maths and basic digital skills (if you need it)
You won’t be paid, but you may be given expenses for things like travel and meals.
Before you start
You can use the service to search for traineeships but you need to register if you want to apply for traineeships.
You can log in if you have an account.
Get advice
Contact the National Careers Service for advice.
If you’re receiving benefits, contact Jobcentre Plus to check if the traineeship will affect your claim.
How apprenticeships work
Apprenticeships combine practical training in a job with study.
As an apprentice you’ll:
- be an employee earning a wage and getting holiday pay
- work alongside experienced staff
- gain job-specific skills
- get time for training and study related to your role (at least 20% of your normal working hours)
Apprenticeships take 1 to 5 years to complete depending on their level.
Levels of apprenticeship
Apprenticeships have equivalent educational levels.
| Level | Equivalent educational level | |
|---|---|---|
| Intermediate | 2 | GCSE |
| Advanced | 3 | A level |
| Higher | 4,5,6 and 7 | Foundation degree and above |
| Degree | 6 and 7 | Bachelor’s or master’s degree |
Some apprenticeships may also give you an additional qualification, such as a diploma.
Who can start an apprenticeship
To start an apprenticeship, you’ll need to be:
- 16 or over
- living in England
- not in full-time education
You can apply for an apprenticeship while you’re still at school but you’ll need to be 16 or over by the end of the summer holidays to start the apprenticeship.
If you need more experience
If you feel you’re not ready for an apprenticeship, a traineeship is a course designed to prepare you for one.
