Advanced apprenticeships are often considered equivalent to TWO A-Level passes. Doing one of these apprenticeships will see you undertaking a Level 3 qualification such as a Level 3 NVQ, while also obtaining a professional knowledge-based certification such as a BTEC, along with functional skills in English and Maths (if required).

You often choose to do a Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship right after your GCSEs. Since these apprenticeships are equivalent to 2 A-Level passes, you may often need at least 5 GCSEs or more to be eligible. You’ll also need to be:

Since an Advanced apprenticeship offers you the opportunity to get qualifications that are equivalent to 2 A-Level passes, you may be able to go down the university route should you so wish to. However, since your apprenticeship will have already equipped you with the necessary skills and qualifications that are relevant to the industry you’re working in, we recommend taking a look at some degree apprenticeship options. These higher-level apprenticeships offer you the opportunity to continue working and earning a salary, while also working towards a fully-funded degree.

In a nutshell, the biggest difference between advanced apprenticeship, going to an FE college and doing your A-levels is the way you’re likely to study or learn.

A-Levels are often delivered in a more traditional classroom-style setting, with more focus on written assignments, essays and exams. So it’s quite similar to school.

A Further Education College, on the other hand, is slightly less-formal that school, but is still quite focussed on the classroom-based study. You may have a bit more flexibility in your timetable, with the opportunity to study different qualifications other than just A-levels.

An Advanced apprenticeship splits your time between the classroom or training provider and learning on the job with your employer. Your assessment is usually consists of a mixture of academic and practical assessments, and you’ll also be earning a salary while studying.

Much like other apprenticeships, an advanced apprenticeship is a great alternative pathway into a potential career, especially if: