Skip to content

Apprenticeships

An Apprenticeship is an ideal way for someone to kick-start their career and gain a nationally-recognised qualification while being paid at the same time.

Apprenticeships are also available to those who are looking to upskill or change careers.

Engineering student filing a part.

Our Apprenticeship Programmes

Apprenticeships are delivered by East Kent Colleges Group through EKC Training.

At EKC Ashford College, you can study apprenticeships in:

  • Engineering, Manufacturing and Automotive

While not all programmes are based at EKC Ashford College, you can still explore and apply for the full range of apprenticeship opportunities, with training available across our other College locations in Kent.

engineering student using workshop equipment

How you apply to an Apprenticeship with EKC Training

Step 1 – Find an Apprenticeship you’re interested in

Explore our Apprenticeships online and see the wide range of opportunities that are available to you.

Step 2 – Apply

Apply on our online application system for the Apprenticeship you are choosing.

Step 3 – Come to an interview

Come to an interview to meet our recruitment team, learn more about the Apprenticeship and see if it is right for you.

What is an Apprenticeship?

Apprenticeships provide you with the skills you need for your chosen career, along with a nationally recognised qualification.

An Apprenticeship is your path to a paid job where you can earn a wage whilst you’re training, giving you invaluable industry experience.

You will also be entitled to employee benefits such as holiday leave.

Apprenticeships offer a opportunities for individuals who are:

  • Early in their career
  • Seeking to upskill within their current job
  • Exploring a career change.

There are different levels of Apprenticeship schemes to suit your needs.

If you’re wondering where to start, we’ve put together some Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs).

Engineering student using equipment
Apprenticeships student standing infront of his work placement

Information for Parents and Guardians

Apprenticeships are designed by employers so the training reflects the skills, knowledge and behaviours an apprentice will need for a particular occupation.

As a parent, you play a vital role in supporting and guiding your young person through this journey.

student wearing eye protection using engineering equipment and smiling.

Information for Employers

Apprenticeships can be a strategic and rewarding investment for your business.

They provide structured training that combines practical, on-the-job learning with College training.

Anyone in a business, from entry level to senior leaders, can enrol onto a relevant Apprenticeship to gain skills.

You can also contact our EKC Training team for more information about Apprenticeships:

01227 811315
apprenticeships@eastkent.ac.uk
Man standing in front of a boiler

“With an Apprenticeship, you learn something new every day, it is a really practical hands-on way of learning. I couldn’t imagine myself sitting behind a desk all day.

“The beauty of an Apprenticeship is that you get paid whilst you are learning. My Apprenticeship has given me the skills I need in the trade as I hope to run my own business in the future.”

Josh
Level 3 Plumbing and Domestic Heating Technician
Man standing in front of a wall filled with tools

“My role is incredibly rewarding, and I’ve met many great people along the way who have supported me.

“My advice to others thinking about an Apprenticeship is be prepared for hard but rewarding work. It’s good fun and you are well supported throughout!”

Thomas
Level 3 Plumbing and Domestic Heating Technician
Man standing in front of a boiler

“There are things you do not learn when on site and College has helped me learn about certain rules and regulations which will help me in my career.

“I am hoping to stay with my employer after my Apprenticeship finishes, with the goal to progress in the business.

“For me, Apprenticeships are the best way to learn.”

Will
Level 3 Plumbing and Domestic Heating Technician

We’re part of six community-based colleges

Our mission is to empower our communities to develop their economic and social prosperity in a rapidly changing world.