What is an apprenticeship?
An apprenticeship is an opportunity to combine employment and education by gaining practical experience in a real job while studying for a recognised qualification and earning a competitive salary.
What types of apprenticeships do Virgin Media offer?
We have loads of great apprenticeship opportunities that cover all sorts of roles across our business, so whether you want to work on a more technical, engineering or business side of our business there’s a scheme for you.
What qualifications can I gain with an apprenticeship?
Apprentices spend at least 20% of their time studying towards a nationally recognised qualification as part of a structured learning programme. These qualifications include:
- Functional skills – GCSE level qualifications in English, Maths and IT
- National Vocational Qualifications (NVQs) – from level 2 (similar to five GCSEs) up to level 5 (comparable to a postgraduate degree)
- Technical qualifications – including BTEC, City and Guild Progression Award etc
- Academic qualifications – including a Higher National Certificate (HNC), Higher National Diploma (HND) foundation degree or the equivalent of a full Bachelor’s degree
What are the different levels of apprenticeship?
There are four different levels of apprenticeship:
- Intermediate apprenticeships – equivalent to five good GCSE passes
- Advanced apprenticeships – equivalent to two A-level passes
- Higher apprenticeships – equivalent to the first stages of higher education (e.g. foundation degree)
- Degree apprenticeships – comparable to a Bachelor’s or Masters degree
What are the entry requirements to become an apprentice?
Apprentice entry requirements vary according to the type of scheme that you choose
- Intermediate apprenticeship: Over 16 years-old, no longer in full-time education and eligible to work in the UK
- Advanced apprenticeship: Possible prior work experience and at least three A*-C or 9-4 grade GCSEs or equivalent (e.g. intermediate apprenticeship qualification)
- Higher apprenticeships: HNC or first year of a Bachelors, usually at least five A*-C or 9-4 grade GCSEs and some Level 3 qualifications (AS-levels, BTEC National, level 3 NVQ) in relevant subjects.
- Degree apprenticeships: Highest level of requirements include three A-levels in a specified grade range or a higher apprenticeship qualification, at least five A*-C or 9-4 GCSE grades, probable prior work experience.
How much do apprentices get paid?
Virgin Media apprentices can expect to be paid a starting salary of between £17,000 and £19,000 a year, and more! Starting salaries depend on the level of the apprenticeship and where it is based (as some roles have London weighting). At Virgin Media though, we also offer performance pay opportunities and many apprentices will see a starting salary increase of between £2,000 and £4,000 within the first year. Check out more about the salary & benefits here.
What type of benefits does Virgin Media offer?
We offer our people an attractive range of benefits from unbeatable discounts and season ticket loans to and having your birthday off every year! For a full list of our amazing benefits, check out our benefits.
How many hours a week do apprentices work?
Your working hours will generally be decided by your employer but you’ll typically work between 30-40 hours-a-week (usually around 35-37.5hrs/week) but no more.
How long do apprenticeships usually last?
The length of your apprenticeship depends on several factors including apprenticeship level, chosen sector and your employer’s schemes, but they typically range between:
- Intermediate apprenticeships: 1 year – 18 months
- Advanced apprenticeships: 2 years
- Higher and degree apprenticeships: 3 – 6 years
Is there any age limit to becoming an apprentice?
Apprentices must be over 16 years-old, but there is no upper age limit to beginning a scheme.
Will an apprenticeship lead to a permanent role?
At Virgin Media, all of our Apprenticeship Schemes are offered on permanent contracts. And, around 90% of apprentices stay on with us – while others will have gained transferable skills that are welcomed by employers elsewhere.