Becoming an Apprentice

What is an Apprenticeship?

Apprenticeships are nationally recognised qualifications that combine practical training in a job with study. These work-based programmes are funded by the Department for Education and your employer. You’ll learn practical skills in the workplace, develop your technical knowledge through formal off-the-job training and are able to gain experience whilst working.

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Why Choose an Apprenticeship?

An apprenticeship is a genuine job – you are employed and paid from day one. As an apprentice, you will:

  • Work alongside more experienced staff
  • Gain job-specific skills
  • Earn a wage and get holiday
  • Be given time for study and training related to your role (at least 20% of your contracted hours or about 6 hours a week on average).
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  • A group of young people who are involved in outdoor apprenticeships stand in the dark looking at a map. They are wearing helmets with head torches on top and appear to be working out directions.
  • A group of young people stand around in a circle while an outdoor activity instructor provides instructions on a whiteboard. The group are wearing life jackets over warm outdoor clothing indicating they are about to take part in a fun water activity.
  • An instructor explaining the walking route to a group of Apprentices taking part in Lowland Leader training.
  • Two apprentices taking part in a training exercise stand on a grassy slope surrounded by countryside. They are looking at maps and are wearing warm outdoor clothing.

Starting an Apprenticeship

To start an apprenticeship, you’ll need to be:

Aged 16 or over

Living in England

Not in full-time education

A group of young apprentices stand on a concrete platform in front of orange and blue kayaks. There is a lake behind them, and the group are wearing life jackets over outdoor clothing.

How Does it Work?

Apprenticeship standards are made up of several elements. These include:

  • Initial assessment – to check your existing skills
  • Training – to develop your skills, knowledge and behaviours
  • Functional skills – English and Maths support if you need it
  • Gateway – confirmation you are ready for your end point assessment
  • End Point Assessment – a formal assessment at the end of your apprenticeship
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Our Apprenticeships

The apprenticeship standards we currently offer are:

Level 2 Community Activator Coach – for those wishing to access instructor development and engage with the community.

Level 3 Outdoor Activity Instructor – for those wishing to start, or change to, a job as an outdoor instructor. Delivers UCAS points and an alternative to A levels or T levels.

Level 3 Early Years Educator – designed to develop confident, professional practitioners who deliver high-quality early childhood education and care.


A young apprentice sits on the edge of a high cliff surrounded by stunning countryside views on a sunny day. He is wearing a lime green helmet while holding a rope for another person who may be abseilling down the cliff.
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“Apprentices enjoy their studies. They are proud ambassadors for their employers and positive role models for the young people they instruct.
Many apprentices use the significant knowledge and skills they gain as a result of studying their apprenticeship to support the local communities where they live.”

Ofsted Report 2024

Channel Training holds the Matrix Standard, a national quality award which demonstrates that we provide a high standard of impartial information, advice and guidance to help you explore options and the right approach for your chosen career and industry sector.

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Apprenticeship Vacancies

If you’re ready to become an apprentice, browse our current apprenticeship vacancies now.

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