Your Questions Answered
What is an apprenticeship?
It’s a job that offers great training, a salary and the chance to learn new skills on the job and study towards professional qualifications. All apprentices at YBS have the security of a permanent job and receive training from our providers:
What are apprenticeship frameworks and standards?
In a nutshell, frameworks are designed by companies for companies. Standards are new Government apprenticeship schemes designed by large groups of companies that will eventually replace all apprenticeship frameworks.
What Levels do we offer?
- Level 3 – Advanced Level Apprenticeships
- Levels 4 & 5 – Higher Level Apprenticeships (Foundation Degree Equivalent)
- Level 6 – Degree Apprenticeships or Degree Equivalent Apprenticeships
Can you fail an apprenticeship?
We assess our apprentices throughout their journey. There’s also a final assessment by an independent third party. Every apprentice can achieve a Pass, Merit or Distinction. Unfortunately, they can also fail. All of our apprentices also need to be able to carry out their day-to-day work with our training and support.
What happens when it finishes?
All our apprentices start on a permanent contract. When your apprenticeship finishes, we’ll update your contract to reflect your new role. You’ll then enjoy lots of opportunities to move into different roles or become a future leader.
Are apprenticeships recognised within the industry?
Yes! Because apprenticeship standards are built by people in industry. The professional qualifications are also fully recognised by industry and various awarding bodies.
Is there progression?
Definitely! Our apprenticeships help new colleagues launch their career here and existing colleagues to develop and progress at different times in their career.
Are apprenticeships just cheap labour?
Not at all! Unlike some companies, our apprentices join us on permanent contracts from day one. They enjoy the same benefits as colleagues in the same role and salaries above the national living wage that grow over time. So, after two years they receive the same salary as non-apprentice colleagues.
How much will I get paid?
We pay our apprentices above the living wage. You’ll start on £15,500 a year plus benefits. Your salary will increase over time, so when you finish, your pay will be the same as non-apprentice colleagues in the same role.
What hours will I work?
You’ll work 35 hours per week. For example, 9am-5pm – that’s an 8 hours a day (including a one hour unpaid lunch break).
For Customer Service areas, our normal business hours are 8am-8pm Monday to Friday. You’ll work a shift pattern between these times, totalling 35 hours per week. You’ll also work Saturdays 9am to 1pm on a rotation basis.
How many holidays will I get
32 days (224 hours) a year, including bank holidays.