Apprenticeships

Plymouth College of Art offers apprenticeships specifically designed for the Creative Industries. As a specialist art college we provide industry relevant training to help you get a head start in your creative career. As an apprentice you will work full time for a company, gaining ‘on the job’ experience and allowing you to earn while you learn!

What will an apprenticeship give you?

12 to 18 months work experience
Day or block release to college to further your knowledge
A qualification relating to the skills you will gain at work
A qualification for the college course
Support in English, Maths and ICT
Knowledge of employment rights (ERR) and personal development (PLTS)
Pathways available at Intermediate or Advanced level

Apprenticeships available in...

Creative & Digital Media, Design, Digital & Machine Print, Photo Imaging, Cultural Heritage, Community Arts, Fashion & Textiles, Ceramics Manufacturing

Are you eligible?

You should be a non-graduate who is motivated, ambitious and looking to start out in a career within the creative industries. Training for 16 to 18 year olds is a priority and fully-funded, training for 19 to 24 year olds is part funded, with employers expected to make a part or full contribution.

How much will you get paid?

The employer is responsible for paying your salary. The National Minimum Wage requires all apprentices to be paid a minimum of £2.65 per hour. This applies to 16 to 18 year olds and to those aged 19 and over in the first year of their Apprenticeship. Those aged over 19 should be paid the normal National Minimum Wage for their age after their first year in training. Apprentices will work a minimum of 30 hours per week.

Finding your own apprenticeship?

Many apprentices complete work experience prior to their apprenticeship and at times this can lead directly to employment as an apprentice. Work experience can be an important learning experience for you and a real insight into what an apprenticeship in your chosen job may be like.

The first step in finding your own work placement is to identify the companies that you wish to contact. Many jobs are never advertised and so making a 'speculative' approach to a company can be a useful way of getting a foot in the door. Use the internet to research companies that may be able to offer the experience that you require. Remember to consider the distance and cost of travel as you will have to pay this out of your apprenticeship wage.

To make an approach to a company it is normal to send a CV and covering letter. The layout and content of the CV can differ but should include your name, contact details, education history and work experience. Within your covering letter you get the chance to explain to the company why they should employ you. To do this you should explain your motivation for the job, what relevant skills you have and why you are the suitable candidate. Remember to include your experience from work, education and your own time. If you are applying for a creative job then this is also a chance to include some of your own artwork such as graphic design work or photographs.

To be able to complete an apprenticeship you must be employed by a company and we request that this is for a minimum of 30 hours per week. The business for which you work must allow you the time, opportunity and resource necessary to work towards the qualification.

How to apply

All current apprenticeship vacancies are advertised on the National Apprenticeship Service website. The system allows you to apply for vacancies online and to monitor the status of your application. You can also set up job alerts if there are no vacancies that currently match your interests.

Search and apply for apprenticeship vacancies online: www.apprenticeships.org.uk
If you are having any difficulties applying or have questions about an application please get in touch:
business@pca.ac.uk | 01752 205714

What our Students say

Tim Singer - Photo-imaging apprentice, Viewpoint, Bath

I studied Photography and Film A levels and thought about going to uni, but decided it was too expensive and that an apprenticeship would put me ahead. I was doing unpaid work experience with Viewpoint and my boss suggested this scheme. At College I get a different perspective about how photography can be used. I can think about my own work and develop a portfolio for when the apprenticeship ends. I’m intrigued by the historical development of photography. It’s nice to have another place to come to and do a different kind of work that’s more reflective. It makes me appreciate the experience I get in my job too.

Jordan Airzee - Creative and Digital Media Apprenticeship, Twofour, Plymouth

“It’s brilliant. I was thrown in at the deep end but it all its together. I work in the IT team at Twofour, while the College training helps with the wider view. I want to stay in employment when I finish here, but if I need them, I’ll have the qualifications for uni – so all my options are open. Financially, it isn’t much, but it makes all the difference. I’ve got more independence and I’m learning how to look after my money. I’d recommend an apprenticeship to anyone. It’s very competitive but it’s a good option.”

Jordan Shahin - Creative and Digital Media Apprenticeship, Twofour, Plymouth

“The world of work is very different from being in education, but I have a strong work ethic. I like the recognition and rewards of working. TwoFour are laid back and friendly, and the link with the College has made working life more enjoyable – it breaks up the week and lets me step back into education to develop my own ideas. I think it makes me a better all round employee. After the apprenticeship I plan to travel for a year, but I’ll come back to the media industry”