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Level 4 (Higher) Apprenticeships

Level 4 (Higher) Apprenticeships

Level 4 (Higher) Apprenticeships are a fantastic opportunity for those who want to be academically challenged but also want to gain real world experience at the same time!

There’s a really simple way of understanding qualifications. They’re all given a number between 1 and 8, where 1 is made up of low GCSE grades (grades 3,2 & 1 or grades D,E,F & G) and 8 is a PhD (a doctorate) – the highest level of qualification from a University. Level 4 sits in the middle of this and is the next level up from A-levels, Level 3 BTECs, Scottish Highers and other equivalents. By doing a Level 4 apprenticeships you’ll gain a Level 4 qualification which is the equivalent to a Foundation degree or HND.

As a Level 4 apprentice, you will find yourself being academically challenged due to the level of the qualification, therefore you may need formal qualifications to be accepted onto the programme. Entry requirements likely include level 3 qualifications, such as a level 3 (advanced) apprenticeship, A-Levels, Scottish Highers or a Level 3 BTEC or NVQ. As many current employees are also put through level 4 apprenticeships, you may not need recent qualifications but instead need a considerable level of experience in the discipline of the apprenticeship.

Your Level 4 (Higher) Apprenticeship can take anywhere from one to five years for you to complete. As an apprentice, you’ll spend most of your time working with an employer on projects which are directly related to the topics included in your apprenticeship. At level 4, there is a wide selection covering almost every job type. You’ll also spend 20% of your time studying at a college, university or training provider working towards your qualification with people from a wide range of different employers, giving you the perfect time to meet other like-minded apprentices. Everything you learn you’ll also be able to apply back to your everyday work, making your day-to-day job that little bit easier!

Don’t forget one of the most important things through all of this; you’ll be paid! As an apprentice, you’ll be paid at least Apprentice Minimum wage for the first year of your apprenticeship and then National Minimum Wage for your age group after that. However, we’ve seen some higher apprenticeships pay over £20,000 per annum from your first year – that’s a salary many graduates would be happy to receive! You’ll have the same benefits as other employees at your organisations, which includes paid holiday and as you’re an apprentice you’ll be able to get student discounts too. Don’t mind if I do!

Level 4 apprenticeships are a great opportunity if you want to academically challenge yourself but also want to start working in a professional environment.

FAQs

What are Level 4 apprenticeships like?

As a Level 4 apprentice, you’ll spend 80% of your time working with your employer and the rest of your time studying towards your level 4 qualification. You’ll be working at the office, factory, onsite or even working remotely depending on your employer and job requirements. You’ll also be studying with a university, college or training provider either in-person or online with plenty of opportunities to put your learning into practise in your day job.

Every apprenticeship is different because your employer is different and there will be a variety of projects that you could get involved with. Search opportunities and look at the job description to see exactly what you could be doing, but before you know it you could be managing projects, processes and even people as part of your programme!

You’ll be able to network and meet other like-minded people at work and those who have chosen the same route as you by doing an apprenticeship with your training provider, college or university. You’ll make new friends and likely have regular social events through work and your training provider!

What qualifications do I get?

If you chose to do a level 4 (higher) apprenticeship, you’ll gain a Apprenticeship at level 4 which might also include a qualification which could be a HND, Level 4 NVQ or BTEC, something from a professional body or a Foundation degree. You could also get – or work towards - chartered status in your role. This means being professionally recognised for your skills, knowledge and experience. In many areas of work, membership of a professional body is more important than a qualification on its own.

You could also work towards additional Functional Skills qualifications in maths and English too.

What’s the difference between level 4 and other higher apprenticeships?

Like all apprenticeships you will spend 80% of your time with the employer and 20% of your time working towards your qualification. The bit that varies with each apprenticeship is the level of qualification that you work towards, as well as the employer or training provider you choose. Level 4 apprenticeships are the lowest level of ‘Higher Apprenticeship’. It means that you’ll get a Level 4 qualification at the end of it, whereas if you choose a level 7 apprenticeship, you’ll get a Level 7 qualification at the end of it.

How do they work?

The way an apprenticeship work depends on the apprenticeship you choose to do and the employer and training provider that you choose. You’ll spend 20% of your time working towards a qualification, it is just how this is worked out could change. You might spend once a week training or spend block release away from work and training. The way this training is conducted also varies. You might train online in the workplace, at home or go to an external training provider, college or university.

Can I do a level 4 apprenticeship?

Entry requirements for level 4 apprenticeships vary depending on the employer and training provider that you apply through, however there are some basic requirements most (but not all) level 4 apprenticeships will require. You’ll likely need to have level 3 qualifications, such as a level 3 (advanced) apprenticeship, A-Levels, BTEC or NVQ. However, you may also be able to do the apprenticeship if you have relevant experience, or if you are retraining. We know of some graduates who are offered a Level 4 apprenticeship to gain new knowledge and skills when leaving University.

If you search for opportunities on the GetMyFirstJob website, entry requirements are listed for each opportunity, so you’ll know what you’ll need to get in. If you’re unsure, contact the person at the bottom of the opportunity listing!

What kind of Level 4 apprenticeships are there?

There are over 105 level 4 (higher) apprenticeships that you can do in the UK, some of them include:

  • Animal trainer
  • Associate Project Manager
  • Brewer
  • Business Analyst
  • Countryside ranger
  • Data Analyst
  • Marketing Executive
  • Network Engineer
  • Oral health practitioner
  • Senior culinary chef
  • Software Developer
  • Space engineering technician
  • Sports Coach
  • Town planning assistant
What does an employer look for in my application?

Level 4 (higher) apprenticeships can be competitive, as they are a great stepping stone into the world of work or a new discipline and there are always a limited number available. As with all jobs, make sure you know what the employer is looking for and tailor your application to explain why you’re a great candidate! If you’ve been able to gain some work experience, make sure you include that too. This doesn’t have to be a full-time job, a part-time role while you were at college or school would be a perfect example to show that you can handle the work/study/life balance. This will let them know that you can reliably hold down a job and possess good time management and prioritisation skills.

If you don’t have much experience, there are still ways that you can impress an employer. Make sure you emphasise these key skills on your application, whether that’s by using examples from extra-curricular activities or taking from experiences that you had at school, college or in your free time. To help you out with applications, we have compiled the three key traits that we think employers are looking for in our abundant experience operating alongside them:

  1. Enthusiasm
    You’ll need a genuine interest in the role and degree subject to work independently. It’s three years of your life – you’ll want enthusiasm to complete your work even when it gets tough!
  2. Character
    You’ll need to be mature enough to participate in the workplace and follow the etiquette there. That means someone who is dedicated to their work, studies and is a good fit for the company will be a crucial aspect of the apprenticeship application. Often, employers will use psychometric tests in the application process to find out more about you as a person – they’ll maybe even uncover things that you didn’t know about yourself!
  3. Academic Ability
    This is a very challenging option, and your employer doesn’t want to set you up to fail; after all, it’s in their best interests as well that you succeed! Grades aren’t everything, but you’ll need to make sure you can take on some of the harder academic aspects of the position.
What support will I get?

As a level 4 apprentice, you’ll get support from your employer and your training provider to ensure that you succeed in both your role and your qualification too. You’ll have someone at the training provider who will help you through the qualification and a manager in your workplace who will support you in your day-to-day job. You may even get a workplace mentor from the training provider or your employer who can help you with things you may not want to talk to your manager about, often mentors are people who have recently finished an apprenticeship themselves so can offer some sound advice!

How much does it cost?

Apart from commuting costs and the odd meal-deal if you’re working in the office or onsite, an apprenticeship is completely free, in fact you’ll be paid for doing an apprenticeship!

You’ll be paid at least Apprentice Minimum wage for the first year of your apprenticeship and then National Minimum Wage for your age group after that. We’ve seen some higher apprenticeships pay over £20,000 per annum from your first year – that’s a salary graduates would be happy to receive!

Are level 4 apprenticeships difficult?

Working towards a level 4 qualification on its own can be challenging as it will likely be the highest level of qualification you’ve worked towards. It’s true what people say that between college (level 3) and your first year of university (level 4) is probably the biggest academic jump you’ll make.

On top of this, you’ll also be working for four days a week, or 80% of your time, so you’ll have less time than people working towards a qualification full-time. But don’t worry, if you are successful in a level 4 apprenticeship application, your employer and training provider believe in you and want you to succeed, so they’ll support you to achieve everything you can!

What happens after the apprenticeship ends?

At the end of your level 4 (higher) apprenticeship, there are a few different things that could happen. You could be offered a permanent position at your current employer or you could be offered to go onto a different apprenticeship at a higher level. You should also consider the possibility that there isn’t a position for you at the end of your apprenticeship, so you could move onto a different qualification, employer or apprenticeship – your future is in your hands!

You’ll have the same benefits as other employees at your organisations, which includes paid holiday and as you’re an apprentice you’ll be able to get student discounts too.

Higher Level 4 Apprenticeships

Employer Logo

Cyber Security Apprentice

QA Apprenticeships

pstrong***PLEASE NOTE*** In order to apply for this vacancy you MUST apply directly using the following link:strongp pstronga hrefhttp:bit.ly3ZAUCbahttp:bit.ly3ZAUCbaastrongp pstrongLooking to kick-start a career in Cyber Security?br strongp pAt Ibstock, we dont just build with bricks-we build futures. With over 2,300 employees across the UK, were proud to lead the way in sustainable manufacturing and digital innovation. From AI-driven production to cyber resilience, were shaping the future of building-and you can be part of it.p pJoin Ibstock Plc as a Cyber Security Apprentice and take your first steps into the exciting world of IT security. This hands-on programme will equip you with a Level 4 Cyber Security Engineer apprenticeship through a leading external training provider, while you gain real-world experience in a FTSE 250 manufacturing business.p pstrongWhat youll be doing:strongp ul liIdentify and analyse cyber vulnerabilities, threats, and risks across systems and networks.li liConduct cyber risk assessments, audits and contribute to incident response.li liConfigure and operate cyber security tools, digital networks, and protocols.li liResearch emerging cyber-attack methods and support risk mitigation strategies.li liPresent your findings and reports to key business stakeholders.li liEnsure cyber security activities align with company policies and industry standards.li ul pstrongWho were looking for:strongp pWe want curious, committed, and tech-passionate individuals who are:p ul liEnthusiastic about cybersecurity and willing to learn.li liAnalytical thinkers who approach problems logically and methodically.li liStrong communicators with the ability to present complex issues clearly.li liProactive and keen to stay up to date on cyber threats and technologies.li liAble to work independently and as part of a collaborative team.li liBonus points for any prior experience, self-study, or coursework in IT, coding, networking, or cybersecurity!li ul pstrongEntry requirements:strongp ul liAn A-Level in ICTli liOR an International Baccalaureate at Level 3 in ICTli liOR a Level 3 apprenticeship in a similar subjectli liOR a BTEC Extended Diploma in IT (180 credits)li ul pYou may also have a combination of qualifications and experience which demonstrate the minimum foundation needed for the programme. In this instance you could still be considered for the programme.p pIf you hold international equivalents of the above qualifications, at the time of your application you must be able to provide an official document that states how your international qualifications compare to the UK qualifications.p pstrongFor more information please visit the UK ENIC website.strongp pstrongWorking hours:strongp p40 hours per week, Monday to Friday.p pstrongBenefits:strongp ul liA starting salary of 23,000 per annum.li liSupport from experienced IT professionals and industry mentors.li liA chance to join a dynamic tech team supporting business-critical cyber operations.li liA workplace that values innovation, career progression, and personal development.li liPension.li liApprenticeship training time.li li28 Days Annual Leave including bank holidays.li ul pstrongFuture prospects:strongp p90 of QA apprentices secure permanent employment after completing: this is 20 higher than the national average.p pstrongAbout QA:strongp pOur apprenticeships are the perfect way to gain new skills, earn while you learn, and launch yourself into an exciting future. With over 30,000 successful apprenticeship graduates, we’re a top 50 training provider, dedicated to helping you succeed.p pstrongInterested? Apply now!strongp pstrong***PLEASE NOTE*** In order to apply for this vacancy you MUST apply directly using the following link:strongp pstronga hrefhttp:bit.ly3ZAUCbahttp:bit.ly3ZAUCbaastrongp

Location: Leicestershire Cyber security professionals 11.06 per hour Leicestershire

Higher Level 4 Apprenticeship

Posted 1 day ago 27 days until closing

New Listing
Employer Logo

IT Cyber Security Apprentice

QA Apprenticeships

pstrongEmployer description:strongbr Plus Dane Housing span data-teamstrueare a housing association with a strong social purpose. We employ almost 600 people and have more than 13,500 homes across Merseyside and Cheshire. We are an ambitious organisation striving to provide the very best possible services to over 30,000 customers who live in our homes. What unites us, as a team of colleagues, is our social purpose, strong values base and the positive impact that we can have on the communities our customers live in. We are committed to providing safe and secure homes for our customers, as well as delivering services that support them to live happy, healthy and fulfilled lives. At Plus Dane we are committed to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion. We encourage applications from all diverse backgrounds and all ages. If you have just left education, returning from a career break, or looking for a new direction we would love to hear from you.spanp pstrongOverview:strongp pWe are excited to be recruiting an IT Cyber Security Apprentice who will have the opportunity to work as part of the infrastructure team within the broader IT Department.You will assist the team in accordance with health and safety regulations and will be given an opportunity to gain skills alongside your apprenticeship qualification. The ideal candidate will be looking to develop a career which gives you the opportunity to develop your skills in IT, with a particular flare for infrastructure and Cyber Security and along with your customer service, communication, and people skills.p pAs an IT Cyber Security Apprentice, you will collaborate closely with the IT Infrastructure team and our Security Operations Centre (SOC) provider and other third parties to help safeguard Plus Dane’s systems, data, and devices. Your role will encompass various aspects of cyber security, including monitoring, analysis, investigations, and incident response. Additionally, you will have opportunities to participate in the general day-to-day infrastructure tasks.p pstrongPLEASE NOTEstrong: Possession of a valid driving license and access to a vehicle is strongessentialstrong, as the role requires travel to offices in Liverpool (L3 4AE), Cheshire (CW12 1DT), and Runcorn, as well as visits to various sites across Merseyside and Cheshire.p pInitially there will be up to 4 days working out of our Liverpool and or Cheshire office to deliver shadowing of the team functions and processes or as the business requires.p pstrongResponsibilities:strongp ul listrongMonitor Security Alerts:strong Assist in monitoring security alerts and responding to potential threats, working with the infrastructure Team and Plus Dane partners.li listrongIncident Response:strong Participate in incident response activities, including identifying, analysing, and mitigating security incidents, working with the infrastructure Team and Plus Dane partners.li listrongVulnerability Assessment:strong Conduct vulnerability assessments and assist in the implementation of remediation measures, working with the infrastructure Team and Plus Dane partners.li listrongSecurity Tools Managementstrong: Learn to use and manage various security tools and technologies.li listrongSupport:strong Provide first line support on incidents and service requests over the telephone email, teams, in person and self-service portal and communicate updates on progress until resolution as needed by the business.li listrongDocumentation:strong Maintain accurate and detailed documentation of security incidents, procedures, and policies.li listrongAdministration:strong Complete general administrative tasks within the team such as managing inboxes, managing POs and other administrative tasks within the service area.li listrongTraining and Awareness:strong Participate in security awareness training and contribute to educating staff on security best practices. Collaborating with our in-house trainer.li ul pstrongYou will need the following skills:strongp ul liFamiliarity with Microsoft Products, such as Microsoft Office, Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.li liPrioritizing and managing own time to achieve targets.li liSelf-motivated.li liCustomer focused.li liWillingness to learn and take on new challenges.li liTeam player.li liAble to represent and promote Plus Danes mission and values.li ul pstrongIn addition, the following experience would be beneficial:strongp ul liProviding excellent customer service.li liPrevious experience in IT and or an interest in IT and or Cyber Security.li liStrong problem-solving skills.li liGood level of written and verbal communication skills.li ul pstrongEntry requirements:strongp ul lian A-Level in ICTli liOR an International Baccalaureate at Level 3 ICTli liOR an A-Level 3 apprenticeship in a similar subjectli liOR a BTEC Extended Diploma in IT (180 credits)li ul pYou may also have a combination of qualifications and experience which demonstrate the minimum foundation needed for the programme. In this instance you could still be considered for the programme.p pIf you hold international equivalents of the above qualifications, at the time of your application you must be able to provide an official document that states how your international qualifications compare to the UK qualifications.p pstrongFor more information please visit the UK ENIC website. strongp pstrongWorking hours:strongp p35 hours per week. span data-teamstrueThe annual leave year operates between 1st April and 31st March. Annual leave entitlement for full time employees is 35 days (245 hours) plus bank holidays.spanp pstrongSalary:strongp p22,932 per annum, plus essential car user allowance under the wage - this is an additional 1,100 on top of the salary.p pstrongFuture prospects:strongp pspan data-teamstrueWhen you successfully complete your apprenticeship you will be supported to apply for permanent roles in Plus Danespanp pstrongAbout QA:strongp pOur apprenticeships are the perfect way to gain new skills, earn while you learn, and launch yourself into an exciting future. With over 30,000 successful apprenticeship graduates, we’re a top 50 training provider, dedicated to helping you succeed.p pstrongInterested? Apply now!strongp pstrongspan data-teamstruePlease note: This vacancy will close early if 100 applications are received.spanstrongp

Location: West Yorkshire Cyber security professionals 11.03 per hour West Yorkshire

Higher Level 4 Apprenticeship

Posted 1 day ago 27 days until closing

New Listing
Employer Logo

Software Support & Developer Apprentice

QA Apprenticeships

pstrongEmployer description:strongp pVaughan IT Systems is a dynamic and growing technology company specializing in ERP solutions and custom software development. We are committed to delivering innovative IT services and support to a diverse range of clients. As part of our continued growth, we are looking for a motivated and enthusiastic individual to join our team as a Software Support & Developer Apprentice.p pstrongOverview:strongp pThis is an exciting opportunity for someone with a passion for technology and a desire to grow their skills in software development. You will provide first-line software support while receiving hands-on training in a variety of development tools and technologies.p pstrongResponsibilities:strongp ul liProvide software support to clients and internal users.li liAssist in troubleshooting and resolving technical issues.li liParticipate in the development and maintenance of web applications.li liLearn and contribute to ERP system development using HansaWorld HAL.li liSupport the creation of reports using Crystal Reports.li liWork with databases using MS SQL.li liGain experience in .NET development.li ul pstrongTechnologies youll work with:strongp ul liHTML, CSS, JavaScript.li liHansaWorld HAL (ERP Solution).li liCrystal Reports.li liMicrosoft SQL Server.li li.NET Framework.li ul pstrongDesirable skills:strongp ul liBasic programming experience (any language).li liWillingness to learn and develop new technical skills.li liStrong problem-solving abilities.li liGood communication and teamwork skills.li ul pstrongEntry requirements:strongp ul liThe learner must have completed a Level 3 Software Development Apprenticeship with QA or have an equivalent qualification with another training providerli liOR an A-level in Science, Technology, Engineering or Mathematics (STEM) subject and a successful completion of our aptitude testli liOR a BTEC Diploma in IT and a successful completion of our aptitude testli liOR 2 years experience in a relevant role and successful completion of our aptitude testli ul pYou may also have a combination of qualifications and experience which demonstrate the minimum foundation needed for the programme. In this instance you could still be considered for the programme.p pIf you hold international equivalents of the above qualifications, at the time of your application you must be able to provide an official document that states how your international qualifications compare to the UK qualifications.p pstrongFor more information please visit the UK ENIC website. strongp pstrongWorking hours:strongp pMonday to Friday, 9am 5:30pm.p pstrongBenefits:strongp ul liA supportive and collaborative work environment.li liOn-the-job training and mentorship.li liOpportunities for career progression within the company.li liExposure to a wide range of technologies and real-world projects.li ul pstrongFuture prospects:strongp p90 of QA apprentices secure permanent employment after completing: this is 20 higher than the national average.p pstrongAbout QA:strongp pOur apprenticeships are the perfect way to gain new skills, earn while you learn, and launch yourself into an exciting future. With over 30,000 successful apprenticeship graduates, we’re a top 50 training provider, dedicated to helping you succeed.p pstrongInterested? Apply now!strongp

Location: North Yorkshire IT, Software, Web & Telecoms Professional 8.65 per hour North Yorkshire

Higher Level 4 Apprenticeship

Posted 7 days ago 21 days until closing

Higher Level 4 Apprenticeship

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