Apprenticeships are gaining in popularity because of the unique benefits they offer compared to other learning pathways. If you enjoy hands-on learning and are looking for a springboard into the engineering and manufacturing sector, then our apprenticeship programmes are the perfect way to kick start your career!
We’ve answered the most frequently asked questions we receive about our apprenticeship programmes. If there’s anything you’d like to know that isn’t covered here, please get in touch with our helpful team via OASPhase2@the-mtc.org.
An apprenticeship is a full-time job that enables you to train, gain experience, and get paid at the same time. It’s free for the apprentice, and at the end of your programme, you will have the right knowledge, skills, and behaviours you need to be successful in your chosen career.
An apprentice is an employee, and so is entering the world of work. Apprenticeships combine off-the job training (in training centre classrooms and workshops) and on-the-job training (learning with their mentors, managers, and teammates by carrying out their role).
To find out more general information about apprenticeships, click below.
Find out moreOur Level 2 Engineering Operative apprenticeship is an 18 month programme. By learning on the job, you will gain invaluable experience within a real working environment, and you will have one-to-one support and guidance from an industry expert who will visit you in your workplace throughout your apprenticeship. Upon completion, you will be able to progress to a Level 3 apprenticeship.
Our Level 3 apprenticeship programmes in Mechatronics, Machining or Technical Support take three years to complete. The first year includes 4-6 week blocks in the training centre where you will gain the knowledge, skills, and behaviours you’ll need to maximise the benefits of your on-the-job training when you head off to your employer's site.
Over the next two years, you’ll gain real work experience as well as new skills and knowledge from your employer, returning to the training centre regularly for further block release group sessions. At the end of your programme, we’ll support you to pass a final assessment to successfully complete your apprenticeship.
Our Level 4 apprenticeship programmes take two years to complete. You will be predominantly based with your employer from the outset, with day release to OAS. In your final year, you prepare for and undertake your End Point Assessment.
Entry criteria for a Level 2 apprenticeship are:
Applicants must have achieved English and Maths at GCSE grade 2 or Functional Skills Level 1.
To qualify for our Level 3 apprenticeship programmes, you must meet the following criteria:
To qualify for our Level 4 apprenticeships, you must meet the following criteria:
We always screen applications on a case-by-case basis.
There are a few ways to apply to become an OAS apprentice:
Once we’ve received your application and confirmed that you meet our entry criteria, we will invite you to an Assessment Centre at OAS. You’ll have the chance to meet our team and tour our state-of-the-art workshops before undertaking a mock interview with one of our team, and a team building activity to showcase your teamwork and problem-solving skills.
Successful participants are then invited to apply for specific roles with our fantastic employer partners, with the selected candidates joining the programme to begin their new career.
It is important to note, that unless an employer offers you a full-time apprenticeship position, you cannot commence your training at OAS.
We are committed to ensuring that every OAS apprentice is supported to fulfil their potential. Our Inclusive Learning Coordinator provides additional learning needs support. They will work with you on a one-to-one basis, developing a personalised support plan to ensure your additional learning needs are identified and supported, such as extra support with English skills, or dyslexia support.
Visit the link below to find out more about the additional wellbeing support we provide at OAS.
Find Out MoreApprenticeships offer a unique opportunity to gain a qualification alongside valuable work experience, free of charge and whilst earning a living:
The skills employers want: Apprenticeships are designed in partnership with industry so that learners get the expertise that employers need in their businesses.
Formal qualification and evidenced work experience: As well as achieving an industry-recognised qualification, you also gain years of hands-on experience working alongside existing experts within a real work environment, which employers tell us makes apprentices even more valuable.
Paid work and no debt: Because you are employed as an apprentice, you earn while you learn, and since apprenticeships are fully funded, you also avoid the hefty debts that are often associated with university.
Job stability: Nearly all our apprentices continue working for their employers as a qualified technician once they have completed their apprenticeship.
An OAS apprentice’s basic salary in the first year exceeds the government’s recommendation, ranging from £10,000 to £18,000 per year. This increases each year as the apprentice gains in capability and experience. As well as earning while you’re learning, apprentices don’t have to pay anything towards their training, which is funded in full by the government or by your employer.
It’s no secret that there is currently a huge skills gap in the UK engineering and manufacturing sector. This means that there is a vast range of opportunities with a chance to deliver positive impact through a meaningful career in an exciting and innovative sector.
After you have completed your apprenticeship, your career progression is limitless! It’s really up to you and your employer – you might progress from a Level 3 to a Level 4 apprenticeship, a degree apprenticeship or further training, or continue to gain more experience in your role and move into a specialist or managerial position. Many of our team (including our Managing Director and our CEO) began their careers as apprentices – it’s a fantastic first step on anyone’s career ladder!
We are committed to creating the next generation of engineering talent to accelerate the success of the UK’s manufacturing sector. We teach our learners the skills they’ll need for the future, as well as the expertise they need today.
OAS apprentices learn from proven industry experts in a purpose-built environment at the forefront of technological advancements. Our programme includes exposure to disruptive emerging technologies and new ways of working, empowering learners to add value to their employers through innovation. An ambitious enrichment programme also supports development of the soft skills apprentices need for professional and personal success. We treat each and every learner as an individual and tailor their programme to make sure everyone fulfils their potential.
To find out more about the opportunities on offer, please contact OASPhase2@the-mtc.org.
At OAS, wellbeing, equity, diversity, and inclusion are at the heart of everything we do. We want to ensure that all our learners, trainers and colleagues feel safe and valued by fostering a culture of respect and support where we celebrate differences and thrive on each other's success.
Find Out MoreFind all you need to know at the link below.
Travelling to OAS