Course Finder Search Horizontal Apprenticeship

Area of Study

Accounts or Finance Assistants support essential financial tasks such as data entry, reconciliations and bookkeeping. Working as part of a finance team, they help maintain accurate records and contribute to an efficient and effective finance function within an organisation. 

LevelLevel 2
LocationColchester
DurationTypically 12 months
Subject AreasAccounting | AAT, Business and Accounting

Adult Care Workers support individuals to enhance wellbeing, independence and dignity. Providing practical, emotional and social care tailored to individual needs, they help people achieve personal goals, maintain choice and live safely and independently through person-centred care. 

LevelLevel 2
LocationColchester
DurationTypically 12 months
Subject AreaHealth and Social Care

Employers gain a future‑ready professional who collaborates across operations, service delivery, finance, and customer support to deliver tangible time and cost savings. This programme is ideal for organisations looking to unlock the potential of digital solutions, and for individuals eager to drive meaningful, tech‑powered improvement.

LevelLevel 4
LocationColchester
DurationTypically 18 months
Subject AreaComputing

Assistant Accountants support day-to-day financial activities, including data entry, management accounts, VAT returns and year-end reporting. Working with internal teams and external clients, they deliver accurate, timely financial information and support regulatory and organisational accounting requirements. 

LevelLevel 3
LocationColchester
DurationTypically 16 months
Subject AreasAccounting | AAT, Business and Accounting

Associate Project Managers support the successful delivery of projects by planning, scheduling and monitoring activities. They help ensure objectives are met, adapting to change and contributing to effective project outcomes across a wide range of industries and organisations. 

LevelLevel 4
LocationColchester
DurationTypically 16 months
Subject AreasBusiness and Accounting, Business and Management, Management

Autocare Technicians carry out inspections, maintenance and repairs on vehicles, using specialist tools and diagnostic equipment. Working independently or as part of a team, they combine technical, problem-solving and customer service skills to deliver high-quality service and support business operations. 

LevelLevel 2
LocationColchester
DurationTypically 30 months
Subject AreaMotor Vehicle

Bricklayers construct walls using bricks and blocks, applying mortar and ensuring alignment with hand tools. Working mainly on construction sites, they collaborate with other trades and site teams to deliver projects safely, accurately and to specification in various conditions. 

LevelLevel 2
LocationColchester
DurationTypically 24 months
This may reduce if an apprentice has gained previous relevant knowledge and skills.
Subject AreasBricklaying, Building and Decorating

Business Administrators support organisations by delivering efficient administrative services across teams. They build transferable skills including communication, organisation and problem-solving, working with internal and external stakeholders to add value, improve processes and support day-to-day operations. 

LevelLevel 3
LocationColchester
DurationTypically 15-18 months
Subject AreasBusiness and Accounting, Business and Management

Business Analyst apprentices help organisations understand problems, analyse data and shape effective digital and business change. Working across sectors of every size, apprentices learn to capture user needs, model processes and translate complex information into clear, actionable requirements that support successful transformation.

LevelLevel 4
LocationColchester
DurationTypically 18 months
Subject AreaComputing

An Architectural Joiner will create building components by setting out, marking out and manufacturing basic architectural products, including doors, windows, straight staircases and associated ironmongery. 

LevelLevel 2
LocationColchester
DurationTypically 18-24 months
Subject AreaWood Occupations

A Site Carpenter will prepare and install basic building components e.g. doors, straight staircases, wall and floor units and erecting structural carpentry and roof structures on a building site or in domestic and commercial premises. 

LevelLevel 2
LocationColchester
DurationTypically 18-24 months
Subject AreaWood Occupations

Apprentices gain skills in data analysis, communication, and stakeholder engagement while acting as ambassadors for ethical and sustainable business. Employers benefit from a motivated professional who can support compliance, innovation, and long‑term corporate responsibility and sustainability goals, while apprentices build a purposeful career in a rapidly growing field.

Construction Design and Build Technicians support multidisciplinary teams to deliver construction projects, coordinating design information using digital tools and BIM. They help ensure projects meet client requirements for quality, safety and sustainability across a range of building types and sectors. 

LevelLevel 4
LocationColchester
DurationTypically 36 months
Subject AreasBuilding and Decorating, Construction & the Built Environment (Professional & Technical), Professional Construction

Construction Managers oversee building projects on-site or in offices, developing the knowledge, skills and behaviours required for professional recognition. The apprenticeship supports progression towards chartered status, with assessment aligned to industry standards and professional registration requirements. 

LevelLevel 6
LocationColchester
DurationTypically 36 months
Subject AreasConstruction & the Built Environment (Professional & Technical), Management, Professional and Technical Construction, Professional Construction
ApplicationsApplications for full-time and part-time programmes starting in September 2023 are open now

This apprenticeship trains individuals to supervise construction sites, managing contractors, health and safety, quality, costs, and environmental impact to ensure successful project delivery. 

LevelLevel 4
LocationColchester
DurationTypically 36 months
Subject AreasBuilding and Decorating, Construction & the Built Environment (Professional & Technical), Professional Construction

Customer Service Practitioners deliver high-quality products and services to customers across a range of industries, including retail, hospitality, contact centres, financial services and local government, ensuring positive experiences and supporting organisational success. 

LevelLevel 2
LocationColchester
DurationTypically 15-18 months
Subject AreasBusiness and Accounting, Business and Management, Customer Service and Retail

Customer Service Specialists provide expert support, handling complex queries, complaints and escalations. They act as a key point of contact, share knowledge, analyse customer data and drive service improvements across a range of customer-focused environments and sectors. 

LevelLevel 3
LocationColchester
DurationTypically 15-18 months
Subject AreasBusiness and Accounting, Business and Management, Customer Service and Retail

The Level 3 Dental Nurse Apprenticeship is a comprehensive qualification that combines practical experience with in-depth theory. Upon successful completion, you will be eligible to register with the GDC and start your professional career as a dental nurse. 

LevelLevel 3
LocationColchester
DurationTypically 18-20 months
Subject AreaDental Nursing

Early Years Educators deliver high-quality education and care for children from birth to age five. Following EYFS standards, they create inclusive learning experiences, supporting development and meeting the needs of all children, including those with SEND. 

LevelLevel 3
LocationColchester
DurationTypically 18 months
Subject AreasEarly Years, Supporting Teaching and Learning

Early Years Practitioners support children’s daily learning through activities and purposeful play, working as part of a team to ensure their care and development. They collaborate with parents and professionals, following EYFS guidelines to maintain high standards of care. 

LevelLevel 2
LocationColchester
DurationTypically 12 months
Subject AreaEarly Years

Engineering and Manufacturing Support Technicians provides technical assistance, analyse processes, test products, and report findings. They support production, quality, and innovation, collaborate with stakeholders, and ensure safe, accurate, timely work meeting regulatory standards independently. 

LevelLevel 3
LocationColchester
DurationTypically 42 months
Subject AreaEngineering and Manufacturing

This Level 4 Higher Apprenticeship develops advanced manufacturing engineering technicians with practical skills and higher education knowledge. Apprentices provide technical support to design, develop and test products, processes and systems, helping organisations meet customer specifications efficiently and effectively. 

LevelLevel 4
LocationColchester
DurationTypically 42 months
Subject AreaEngineering and Manufacturing

Engineering Operatives perform key manufacturing tasks, supporting production and business growth. They develop transferable skills and knowledge used across engineering sectors, applying consistent core techniques while adapting to specific roles within different manufacturing environments. 

LevelLevel 2
LocationColchester
DurationTypically 12 months
Subject AreaEngineering and Manufacturing

Event Assistants support the planning and delivery of events, working as part of a team to manage tasks such as venue sourcing, logistics and coordination. They assist event planners to deliver successful events for organisations or a range of clients. 

LevelLevel 3
LocationColchester
DurationTypically 18 months
Subject AreasBusiness and Accounting, Business and Management, Catering and Hospitality, Digital Media, Management, Marketing and Events

For employers, Future Leaders strengthens business operations by developing motivated individuals who can take ownership, support colleagues and contribute to productivity from day one. The programme creates clear pathways into roles such as Team Leader, Office Manager or Operations Coordinator, helping organisations grow their next generation of leaders.

LevelLevel 3
LocationColchester
DurationTypically 24 months
Subject AreasBusiness and Accounting, Business and Management, Management

General Welders join metals across industries like aerospace, construction, and defence, supporting UK manufacturing and repair. They work in varied settings, producing welds to industry standards using manual and mechanised processes, with at least two material and welding combinations. 

LevelLevel 2
LocationColchester
DurationTypically 18 months
Subject AreasEngineering and Manufacturing, Welding and Fabrication

Groundworkers are the first on site, they prepare land for construction by interpreting designs, setting out, and installing drainage, concrete, roads, and pathways. Working throughout projects, they collaborate with trades across residential, commercial, and civil engineering sites for contractors of all sizes. 

LevelLevel 2
LocationColchester
DurationTypically 18 months
Subject AreasBuilding and Decorating, Construction & the Built Environment (Professional & Technical)

Develop advanced people management expertise while working, gaining strategic HR, leadership, and organisational development skills. This apprenticeship equips professionals to drive business performance, lead change, and support workforce planning at a senior level. 

LevelLevel 7
LocationColchester
DurationTypically 30-36 months
Subject AreaHuman Resources

HR Support Professionals provide frontline support in medium to large organisations or manage HR in small ones, handling queries, advising managers, maintaining records, supporting HR processes from recruitment to retirement, and ensuring guidance complies with company policy and employment law to reduce legal risk. 

LevelLevel 3
LocationColchester
Norwich*
DurationTypically 14-16 months
Subject AreasBusiness and Accounting, Human Resources
Attendance*Monthly classroom delivery also available for employers and apprentices based closer to Norwich
Fee(s)Additional Employer Costs: To include the CIPD Level 3 Foundation Certificate in People qualification as part of this apprenticeship there are additional exam and registration costs of £800 that cannot be covered by the apprenticeship funding. Please enquire for further information.

Information Communications Technicians ensure reliable operation of IT and telecommunications infrastructure, including hardware, software, networks, and cloud services. They support system changes, maintain compliance, build and manage environments, and monitor performance, security, and sustainability to meet organisational needs. 

LevelLevel 3
LocationColchester
DurationTypically 18 months
Subject AreaComputing

Electricians will use engineering knowledge and understanding to apply their technical and practical skills. They will contribute to the design, development, manufacture, construction, commissioning, operation or maintenance of products, equipment, processes, systems or services. 

LevelLevel 3
LocationColchester
Braintree
DurationTypically 48 months
This may reduce if an apprentice is part-qualified or has relevant experience on entry.
Subject AreasElectrical Installations, Plumbing and Electrical

As a Lead Adult Care Worker, you support individuals facing physical, social, emotional, or intellectual challenges by exercising judgement and taking appropriate action to promote independence, dignity, and control in their daily lives. 

LevelLevel 3
LocationColchester
DurationTypically 12-24 months
Subject AreaHealth and Social Care

The Lead Practitioner in Adult Care guides and inspires teams to support individuals facing diverse challenges, promoting positive outcomes. They demonstrate professional development, contributing to and sustaining a valuesbased culture within the care team at an operational level. 

LevelLevel 4
LocationColchester
DurationTypically 18 months
Subject AreaHealth and Social Care

A Leader in Adult Care manages residential or community services, leading teams and networks or the service itself. They ensure care is safe, effective, responsive, and wellled, often working as registered, deputy, or assistant managers. 

LevelLevel 5
LocationColchester
DurationTypically 18-24 months
Subject AreaHealth and Social Care

Employers gain a commercially minded professional who strengthens their function, collaborates across HR and specialist teams and measures the impact of learning to show real business value. Apprentices build the confidence and capability to progress into roles like Business Partner, Organisational Development Specialist or Talent Manager.

LevelLevel 5
LocationColchester
DurationTypically 18 months
Subject AreasBusiness and Accounting, Business and Management, Management

Employers benefit from an apprentice who supports effective learning across teams, collaborates with subject experts and strengthens the wider HR and function. Apprentices build strong design, facilitation and communication skills, preparing them for roles such as Specialist, Digital Learning Designer or Business Partner.

LevelLevel 3
LocationColchester
DurationTypically 18 months
Subject AreasBusiness and Accounting, Business and Management, Management

This apprenticeship is for those wishing to become a teacher in the Further Education and Skills Sector

LevelLevel 5
LocationColchester
Duration18 Months
Subject AreasSupporting Teaching and Learning, Teacher Training and Education
CampusColchester Campus
Apprenticeship Start Dates
When Can I Start an Apprenticeship?

Looking for a new career, job or maybe a qualification to take your current role to the next level?

Previously apprenticeships were primarily aimed towards 16-18 year olds but government reforms introduced in March 2017 mean that there is no longer an upper age limit for commencing an apprenticeship, even if you already possess a degree or higher level qualification (all applicants must be eligible for funding).

Starting an apprenticeship is dependent on your age and whether you have secured an offer of an apprenticeship from an employer.

You can apply for an apprenticeship while you’re still at school, but you cannot start until you have officially left school and completed your exams.

You need to be 16 or over by the end of the summer holidays to start the apprenticeship. You may start an apprenticeship at 15 years of age if your 16th birthday is between the last Friday of June and 31st August and provided you have completed your exams.

Provided you have left school and have an employment offer in place, then starting employment as an apprentice can occur throughout the year.

If you successfully apply for a vacancy, you may be able to start employment straight away.

Likewise, if you are already in employment and your employer is looking to train you through an apprenticeship, sign-up and enrolment can take place quite quickly.

However, the start date for attending college for training, where required, or if delivered online, when sessions begin, will vary depending on the type of apprenticeship.

Some apprenticeships will have fixed attendance with training on-campus commencing at the start of the autumn term, with no availability for starting the training mid-year.

For other apprenticeships where the training is delivered entirely online, it may be possible to commence the training immediately.

Whichever delivery method applies, this will be communicated to you and your employer post-employment and sign-up.

Attendance1 day a week
Apprenticeship Funding Band (Levy paying employers)£10,000
Employer Contribution Fee (Non-levy paying employers)£500
What will this cost my Business?

How is the Apprenticeship funded?

The Government funds apprenticeships using the apprenticeship funding rules in place on the date the apprenticeship started. This applies to all employers, both those who pay the apprenticeship levy and those who do not.

Employers choose the training they would like their apprentice to receive throughout their apprenticeship. All new starts must follow an approved apprenticeship standard.

Each apprenticeship standard is in a funding band. These funding bands range from £1,500 to £27,000 and are paid through the employers digital apprenticeship account.

Employers can get help from the government to pay for apprenticeship training.

The amount you get depends on whether you pay the apprenticeship levy or not. You pay the levy if you’re an employer with a pay bill over £3 million each year.

Every employer who pays the levy has a digital account where they can access their levy funds to spend on apprenticeship training.

For non-levy paying employers the Government funding pays between 95% and 100% of the apprentice training costs, up to the funding band maximum. This is known as co-investment. 

What will this cost my business?

Levy paying employers will pay the full cost of the agreed funding band using their Digital Apprenticeship account.

For new starts from 1st April 2024, employers who do not pay the levy, the government will fully fund apprenticeship training costs, up to the funding band maximum for apprentices who at the start of their apprenticeship training are aged between:

  • 16 and 21 years old (or 15 years of age if the apprentice’s 16th birthday is between the last Friday of June and 31 August)
  • 22 and 24 years old and have either an education, health and care plan (EHCP) provided by their local authority or have been in the care of their local authority and their employer has fewer than 50 employees

For starts before 31st March 2024, for employers who do not pay the levy and have fewer than 50 employees, the government will fully fund apprenticeship training costs, up to the funding band maximum, for apprentices who at the start of their apprenticeship training are aged between:

  • 16 and 18 years old (or 15 years of age if the apprentice’s 16th birthday is between the last Friday of June and 31 August); or
  • 19 and 24 years old and has either an education, health and care plan (EHCP) provided by their local authority and / or has been in the care of their local authority

Non-levy paying employers taking on an apprentice who does not meet the above age and eligibility criteria will be required to pay the 5% co-investment fee.

An employer contribution fee will be required for:

  • All non-levy paying employers recruiting an apprentice aged 22 or over

For more information about funding bands, please visit Apprenticeship Funding Bands.

Any associated cost to the individual will be made clear when you speak with our employer engagement team.

For any agreed associated costs, payments will be made directly to the training provider at the point of enrolment or a payment schedule. Payment schedules can be discussed with our employer engagement team prior to signing contracts. For more information about apprenticeship contribution fees please contact our engagement team on 01206 712043.

Apprenticeship Funding Bands

Machining Technicians in advanced manufacturing perform highly skilled work using a range of machines, including lathes, milling and grinding machines, CNC centres, and gear cutting and electro discharge machines to produce complex precision components. 

LevelLevel 3
LocationColchester
Braintree
DurationTypically 42-48 months
Subject AreaEngineering and Manufacturing

A Manufacturing Engineer will primarily support the activities involved in bringing design programmes into manufacture. This role is pivotal to the planning, launch and smooth delivery of exciting new products or product refresh programmes. Typically Manufacturing Engineers work closely with a range of other engineers, functions and managers both within their own company and supplier base. 

LevelLevel 6
LocationColchester
DurationTypically 60-72 months.
This duration may be reduced for a candidate with previous relevant experience and/or someone already part qualified. Alternatively this may also be a progression route from a relevant Advanced Apprenticeship.
Subject AreaEngineering and Manufacturing
ApplicationsApplications for full-time and part-time programmes starting in September 2023 are open now

Mechatronics maintenance technicians install, test, troubleshoot, modify, and maintain complex automated equipment using a blend of skills across electrical, electronic, mechanical, fluid power, and control systems disciplines. 

LevelLevel 3
LocationColchester
DurationTypically 42 months
Subject AreasEngineering and Manufacturing, Motor Vehicle

A Metal Fabricator works in manufacturing and engineering construction, producing structures and components from metal. Tasks include fabricating items like bridges, ships, machinery parts, and frameworks using steel sections, plate, and sheet materials. 

LevelLevel 3
LocationColchester
DurationTypically 42 months
Subject AreasEngineering and Manufacturing, Welding and Fabrication

A Motor Vehicle Service and Maintenance Technician services and repairs cars and vans in dealerships or independent garages. They diagnose faults, replace parts, use diagnostic tools, work independently or in teams, and ensure efficient, environmentally responsible workshop practices. 

LevelLevel 3
LocationColchester
DurationTypically 36 months
Subject AreaMotor Vehicle

Multi-Channel Marketers define, design, build and implement digital campaigns across online and social platforms to drive acquisition, engagement and retention, working in teams to deliver marketing plans from briefs, handling straightforward campaign elements assigned tasks. 

LevelLevel 3
LocationColchester
DurationTypically 15-18 months
Subject AreasBusiness and Accounting, Computing, Digital Media, Marketing and Events

Tackling a wide range of emergency situations such as tackling fires, searching, rescuing and protecting people and animals.

LevelLevel 3
LocationColchester
DurationTypically 24 months
Subject AreaUniformed Services

Painters and Decorators prepare and apply coatings and wallcoverings to protect and decorate buildings, ensuring high-quality finishes while complying with health, safety, environmental regulations, and effective communication within construction teams. 

LevelLevel 2
LocationColchester
DurationTypically 24 months
Subject AreasBuilding and Decorating, Painting and Decorating

Employers benefit from a motivated team member who strengthens accuracy, compliance and customer service while working with colleagues, clients and government bodies such as HMRC and The Pensions Regulator. Apprentices develop strong organisational and communication skills, preparing them for progression into roles like Payroll Officer, Payroll Technician or broader HR and Finance pathways.

LevelLevel 3
LocationColchester
DurationTypically 18 months
Subject AreasBusiness and Accounting, Financial Services, Procurement

People Professionals work across organisations of all sizes, supporting business objectives through recruitment, development, employee relations, and compliance. They provide advice on policies and employment law, contribute to projects, and collaborate with internal and external stakeholders. 

LevelLevel 5
LocationColchester
Norwich
DurationTypically 18 months
Subject AreasBusiness and Accounting, Human Resources
Attendance*Monthly classroom delivery also available for employers and apprentices based closer to Norwich

An intensive, practical course providing knowledge and experience in installing domestic plumbing systems. Learners work in varied environments, requiring strong customer service skills and professionalism when working in homes and on building sites. 

LevelLevel 3
LocationColchester
Braintree
DurationTypically 48 months
This may reduce if an apprentice has gained previous relevant knowledge and skills.
Subject AreasAir Conditioning and Refrigeration, Plumbing and Electrical

Procurement and Supply Assistants support buying lowvalue goods and services, maintain accurate data, follow regulations, assist with tenders, quotes and suppliers, manage orders and quality, liaise with stakeholders, and consider sustainability impacts in procurement decisions. 

LevelLevel 3
LocationColchester
DurationTypically 22-24 months
Subject AreasBusiness and Accounting, Financial Services, Procurement
AttendanceA blended delivery model online and on-campus with venues in either Norwich or Colchester.

Procurement and Supply Chain Practitioners manage purchasing goods and services, ensuring contracts comply with legislation and policies. They support activities like supplier analysis, tendering, spend review, order processing, and stakeholder liaison to ensure efficient procurement operations. 

LevelLevel 4
LocationColchester
DurationTypically 12-24 months
Subject AreasBusiness and Accounting, Financial Services, Procurement

Professional Accounting and Tax Technicians will have responsibility for creating, and / or verifying and reviewing, accurate and timely financial information within the organisation in which they are employed or on behalf of another organisation. 

LevelLevel 4
LocationColchester
DurationTypically 18 months
Subject AreasAccounting | AAT, Business and Accounting

A Senior Leader influences at a higher organisational level, including sometimes at Board (or equivalent) level, and sets the culture and tone across their area of responsibility

LevelLevel 7
LocationColchester
DurationTypically 18-21 months
Subject AreasBusiness and Management, Human Resources, Management

Teaching Assistants support the class teacher to enhance pupils’ learning either in groups or individually, ensuring pupils understand the work set, know their learning objectives and stay on task in order to make progress. 

LevelLevel 3
LocationColchester
Distance Learning – Delivered Online
In the Workplace
DurationTypically 12-18 months
Subject AreasEarly Years, Supporting Teaching and Learning

A Vehicle Damage Paint Technician prepares, sprays, and finishes vehicles after collisions. Working in repair workshops, they ensure accurate colour matching and high-quality finishes on cars and light commercial vehicles, often alongside experienced paint technicians. 

LevelLevel 3
LocationColchester
DurationTypically 36 months
Subject AreaMotor Vehicle