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Apprenticeships
At Chiltern Hills Academy, we know that university is not the only route to success. Apprenticeships are a fantastic way to earn while you learn, giving students valuable real-world experience alongside a recognised qualification.
With opportunities available across 170 industries — from construction, healthcare and technology to business, digital and creative fields — apprenticeships provide a practical pathway into the world of work.
Why Choose an Apprenticeship?
- Hands-on learning – gain workplace experience alongside your studies.
- Qualifications that count – apprenticeships range from GCSE-equivalent up to degree level.
- Financially supportive – earn a wage while training, often with tuition costs covered.
- A head start in your career – build connections and experience that open doors for the future.
Apprenticeships typically last between 1–4 years and can give you a real advantage when entering your chosen industry.
Types of Apprenticeships
- Intermediate (Level 2) – equivalent to GCSEs.
- Advanced (Level 3) – equivalent to A Levels.
- Higher (Level 4 and above) – equivalent to a foundation degree and beyond.
- Degree Apprenticeships (Level 6–7) – equivalent to a full bachelor’s or master’s degree.
If you’re not quite ready for an apprenticeship, a traineeship with a local employer can be a stepping stone to build skills and confidence.
Degree Apprenticeships
Degree apprenticeships combine the best of both worlds: a university-level qualification with practical, paid experience. They usually take 3–6 years to complete and give you a degree without the burden of student debt, as tuition fees are covered by the employer.
Our Sixth Form students can explore options using the Unifrog Apprenticeship tool, attend awareness assemblies with ASK (Apprenticeship Support and Knowledge), and take part in mock interviews to prepare for success.
Read more in the Sixth Formers’ Guide to Degree Apprenticeships.
UCAS Apprenticeships
UCAS now provides clear and accessible information about apprenticeships alongside university applications. Students can find the following support:
Apprenticeships and graduate jobs | UCAS
Apprenticeship Application Guides | UCAS
Ultimate Guides — Finding an apprenticeship | UCAS
Explore more at UCAS Apprenticeships.
Useful Links
Apprenticeship Resources
We’ve gathered useful websites and guides to support students and families in finding the right opportunity:
- Top Apprenticeship Employers (top 100 Apprenticeship recruiters)
- Government Apprenticeships
- Government Apprenticeships Guide
- Buckinghamshire Apprenticeships (put in postcode and search)
- Help with your Apprenticeship Application
- Apprenticeship Entry Requirements
- Not going to University
- The Big Choice
- Get My First Job
- Jobs for School leavers
- Bucks Skills Hub
- Career Map
- Target Careers
- Future Talent Apprenticeships
- Amazing Apprenticeships
- Construction Apprenticeships
- Apprenticeships and Graduates
- Film and Theatre Apprenticeships
- Degree Apprenticeships UCAS
- Computer and Digital Apprenticeships
- Accelerate People Apprenticeships
- Business and Digital Apprenticeships
- Institute of Apprenticeships
- National Apprenticeships Show
- London Jobs Show
- Electrician and Plumbing Apprenticeships
- Motor Industry Apprenticeships
- Chef Apprenticeships
- Catering Apprenticeships
- Indeed Recruitment Agency
- Job Centre Online
Local & Employer Links
We regularly work with local employers who are keen to offer apprenticeships to CHA students. Opportunities will be posted here when available.
- Silverson Machines (Chesham) – current apprenticeship opportunity.
- Image: Previous employer engagement: Year 11 Talking Apprenticeships with Cube Video.