Trainees will start their training at National Vocational Qualification level 2. 

Level 2

It is not essential to send trainees for 40 weeks off-the-job training; it can be block release or a single shorter period, the units selected are tailored to suit individual company needs.

Whilst a shorter period off-the-job would increase the time it takes to complete the qualification, the minimum period-to-period that needs to be taken off-the-job to achieve a modern apprenticeship is 26 weeks in the first year.

Level 3

These are completed under normal working conditions within a company; the trainee can be given further short courses in specific topics to suit their industry if required.