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Digital apprentices - FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
Q What is a Digital Apprenticeship?
A Digital Apprenticeships offer talented people a start in the creative and cultural sector. Employed within a company, a Digital Apprentice will, receive a combination of on- the- job and off-the-job training. Apprentices are employed like any other member of staff and will receive a wage – enabling them to earn whilst they learn.
The qualifications gained will be a specialised OCR Diploma in Creative and Digital Media Techniques developed by Skillset.
Q How is this different from other Apprenticeship schemes?
A This is the first scheme that is led, nationally, by the digital media industry itself and it has been developed following full consultation with relevant employers. It is designed to meet needs highlighted by the industry and follows a purpose-built and structured pattern of training. The Digital Apprenticeship is funded by government.
Q What are the entry requirements?
A There are no minimum requirements for Digital Apprenticeships. Entry is based on ability and potential rather than academic track record or background. Employers determine who they take on as Apprentices. Employers may look for the following; motivation, discipline, enthusiasm and initiative, willingness to learn adapt to different work roles and to communicate with a range of people, an interest in the creative digital media industries.
Q I have a Degree, can I still be a Digital Apprentice?
A Those with degrees will not be funded to do an apprenticeship as stipulated by Skillset. They can do an Apprenticeship but would have to find an alternative funding stream.
Q How many Digital Apprenticeships are available?
A We are still finalising our programmes ready for the March 2010 launch. Check here.
Q What are the advantages of doing a Digital Apprenticeship?
A The Digital Apprenticeship opens the door to the digital media industries through flexible work-based learning opportunities where apprentices can learn valuable skills and obtain a diploma qualifications (GSCE or A-level equivalent) whilst earning a wage.
3 reasons to do a Digital Apprenticeship ...
- Get a chance to find out what it's really like to work in the digital media industries
- Learn how industry operates and what you need to succeed
- Gain recognised qualifications and an Apprenticeship designed and approved by industry
Q How long does a Digital Apprenticeship last?
A A Digital Apprenticeship will last as long as it takes to achieve competence in the job for which you are training. On average it takes 12 – 16 months to successfully complete the training. This is dependent on the employer and the support you receive and the level taken.
Q What is involved in the selection process?
A Getting an Apprenticeship is like getting a job. You will be interviewed like you would for any other job. So you need to be prepared to sell yourself and convince others that a Digital Apprenticeship is right for you.
Q As a Digital Apprentice, will I get paid?
A We believe in all apprentices being paid the National Minimum Wage. We also agreed that they must have employed status and that we do not support college-led Programme Apprenticeships.
* NB – currently the National Minimum wage is £ 95 (from August 2009)
Q What is the role of the local training provider?
A A training provider (such as IMT Hurricane) is usually a local college or specialist training organisation responsible for your off-the-job training.
Q What is the role of the employer?
A The employer is a vital part of a Digital Apprenticeship. They give you an induction into the company and your role. They also provide on-the-job training and pay your wages. You will have a manager at work who will be responsible for helping you throughout your training.
Q I already have job! – Can I still do a Digital Apprenticeship?
A Yes - If you work in a company which would benefit from the Digital Apprenticeship and your employer agrees to put you through.
Q What time of the year can I start?
A The time you can start will depend on when the employer is ready to take on a Digital Apprentice.
Q Do I have to pay anything toward the Digital Apprenticeship?
A No, you should not have to pay anything towards the Digital Apprenticeship. However, if you are 25 or over, the rules have recently changed – no funding will be given to support your off the job training.
Q Can a Digital Apprenticeship lead to university?
A A Digital Apprenticeship, like other Apprenticeships lead the way to further learning opportunities, for example HNCs / HNDs, foundation degrees, BA Honors Degrees, subject to the college / university accepting it as an entry route.
Q What happens after the completion of a Digital Apprenticeship?
A A Digital Apprenticeship could lead to a permanent role at the same company progression within that company or progression into further or higher education. You will gain generic knowledge, understanding and skills of the creative and cultural industries which is transferrable.
Find out more
Email course leader mattottewill@imthurricane.org or call 020 8691 1900 between 11am and 5.30pm Mon-Fri.
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Find out more ...
Email course leader mattottewill@imthurricane.org or call 020 8691 1900 between 11am and 5.30pm Mon-Fri
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