email icon
Family news sign up
News
LO spring header 2026
Support for children aged 0-25 with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities

Apprenticeships

Apprenticeships are real jobs, with hands-on experience, a salary and the chance to train while you work. Apprentices are treated just like all the other employees in an organisation, with a contract of employment and holiday leave.

If you're 16 or over, you can become an apprentice as long as you spend at least 50% of your working hours in England - for the duration of the apprenticeship and you are not in full-time education.

Apprenticeships last a set amount of time, ranging between one and four years.

Apprenticeship levels and equivalent qualifications
  • Intermediate apprenticeships are equal to five GCSE passes.
  • Advanced apprenticeships are equal to two A level passes.
  • Higher apprenticeships can lead to an NVQ level four or a foundation degree.
Information on learning and training for young people with SEND

Equality and Diversity laws mean it is illegal for an employer not to take someone on because they have a special educational need or disability.

The Preparing for Adulthood section of the Local Offer has information on learning and training for young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND), including further information on apprenticeships.

Further information and advice on apprenticeships

It's never too early to get inspired.

Did you know there are 700 different apprenticeship pathways? As the economy changes, more people are choosing technical and vocational training to find jobs.

Apprenticeships are available in many different areas, from office-based jobs to catering or construction. You can do an apprenticeship in almost anything!

Visit the national Apprenticeships website to find out more about Apprenticeships and how to get started. Up in BCP website can also give advice.

Join Dorset Careers Hub for a free coffee at one of our eight community venues across the region and gain vital, up-to-date information on the employment and apprenticeship landscape in Dorset. You can view the Dorset Careers Hub careers & apprenticeship seminars on their website. Book your space today to avoid disappointment: Dorset Careers Hub; Careers and Coffee events

Joanne Small, a skills expert from Dorset and Somerset Training Provider Network, explains common myths and answers your questions.

Open to parents, carers and students in Years 10-13 exploring post school options. Students from Year 7 upwards are also welcome to attend as they begin considering their future options.

New for 2026! We are hosting events suitable for Special Educational Needs and/or Disabilities (SEND) families.

Apprenticeships at BCP Council

BCP Council offer apprenticeships. For current opportunities, please see the Councils job pages.  

Useful Websites