Apprenticeships can open the door to many work opportunities and will give you the chance to earn while you learn – says Mid Cheshire College.

First you’ll need to decide which career suits you best; there are lots to choose from.

The apprenticeship is a mix of working for your employer and either attending Mid Cheshire College to study for a qualification in the area of work you have chosen or you will receive training in your workplace.

“The ideal way to start an apprenticeship is to apply direct to the employers on the vacancy matching website and once a job has been secured we would liaise with the employer to arrange your training,” explained June Tully, sector area lead manager (crafts).

“Alternatively, if you are not successful in finding a vacancy, then come to college to gain skills in your chosen area and then progress on to the apprenticeship programme through the vacancy matching service or through our close links with local employers,” June added.

Apprenticeships are open to anyone aged over 16 who is leaving or has already left compulsory education.

Entry requirements are flexible because apprenticeships are not just based on academic achievement but will depend on the career path chosen.

As soon as you have a job you will agree an individual learning plan with your employer and Mid Cheshire College and a training programme will be put together for you.

Your employer will provide a safe working environment and will also work together with an assessor from the college to ensure you achieve your qualifications. You will gain practical experience, skills and knowledge from working in your chosen area of employment.

Apprenticeships are available in accounting, beauty therapy, business administration, childcare, construction trades (wood occupations/trowel occupations), customer service, electrical installation, engineering, hairdressing, health and social care, hospitality and catering, IT, management, motor vehicle, plumbing, retail and team leading.

You can register on the vacancy matching website at apprenticeships.org.uk and you will have the opportunity to look at vacancies from employers.

Current apprenticeship vacancies include: Joiner and bricklayer at Griffiths Construction IT Engineer at Advanced Business Solutions Hairdresser at Whistles Chef at the Fox & Barrel Business Administrator at Medline Industries Customer Service at The Warehouse Ltd.