Do you want to start your career and earn some money at the same time? An apprenticeship might be what you are looking for, and you can also work towards a nationally recognised qualification.

As an apprentice, you’ll spend most of your time in the workplace, working alongside experienced staff. You’ll build up knowledge and skills through on-the-job training.

The rest of your training is likely to take place at a local college or a specialist training organisation. This 'off-the-job' training can be carried out on day release or over a number of days in a block. The amount of time you’ll spend will depend on the job sector you’re working for. It could be anything from one day every other fortnight to two days every week.

There are three levels of apprenticeships available.

Apprenticeships (equivalent to five good GCSE passes)

Apprentices work towards an NVQ (National Vocational Qualification) at level 2, key skills qualifications and in some cases, a relevant knowledge-based qualification such as a BTEC (a BTEC is a work-related qualification that can be taken in place of, or as well as GCSEs or A levels) or City & Guilds (vocational qualifications).

Advanced apprenticeships (equivalent to two A level passes)

Advanced apprentices work towards an NVQ level 3, key skills and, in most cases, a relevant knowledge-based certificate such as a BTEC or City & Guilds.

Higher apprenticeships

Higher apprentices work towards work-based learning qualifications such as NVQ level 4 and, in some cases, a knowledge-based qualification such as a foundation degree.

Apprentices do real jobs for real employers – so you earn while you learn. You’ll get a minimum weekly wage of £95 (based on a 38 hour week). Many employers tend to pay more as you develop your skills. Apprentices earn on average around £170 per week.

Like most other employees, employed apprentices get at least 20 days paid holiday per year. This is on top of bank holidays.

How can I get started?

You can search and apply for an apprenticeship online at the Apprenticeships website.

On the home page click Register/login under the 'Apprenticeship vacancies' box to take you to the login page. There is a help link on the left hand side if you need some support.

Don't worry if you don't find something straight away: once you have registered, you can use the 'my alerts' link to receive handy text or email alerts when new vacancies are listed.

Apprenticeships in Sussex make searching easier by only listing the vacancies available in Sussex.

Local apprenticeship vacancies are also advertised on the Brighton and Hove Jobs website.

To increase your chances of success it's worth thinking about:

• using any contacts you have to identify a job that could support an apprenticeship
• getting work experience
• sending out your CV to potential employers

When you get an interview it's important to show that you are enthusiastic and committed and you can work in a team while at the same time act on your own initiative.

Remember: apprenticeships can start whenever the employers want - they don't have to wait until September.

Here is what the apprentices themselves have to say:

Lizzie is a trainee youth worker for East Sussex County Council.

Get some hints and tips for applying for Apprenticeships from some local employers and apprentices.