Level 4 (Higher) Apprenticeships

Level 4 apprenticeships combine academic challenge with hands-on experience in the real world.

Level 4 (Higher) Apprenticeships

Level 4 (Higher) Apprenticeships are a fantastic opportunity for those who want to be academically challenged but also want to gain real world experience at the same time!

There’s a really simple way of understanding qualifications. They’re all given a number between 1 and 8, where 1 is made up of low GCSE grades (grades 3,2 & 1 or grades D,E,F & G) and 8 is a PhD (a doctorate) – the highest level of qualification from a University. Level 4 sits in the middle of this and is the next level up from A-levels, Level 3 BTECs, Scottish Highers and other equivalents. By doing a Level 4 apprenticeships you’ll gain a Level 4 qualification which is the equivalent to a Foundation degree or HND.

As a Level 4 apprentice, you will find yourself being academically challenged due to the level of the qualification, therefore you may need formal qualifications to be accepted onto the programme. Entry requirements likely include level 3 qualifications, such as a level 3 (advanced) apprenticeship, A-Levels, Scottish Highers or a Level 3 BTEC or NVQ. As many current employees are also put through level 4 apprenticeships, you may not need recent qualifications but instead need a considerable level of experience in the discipline of the apprenticeship.

Your Level 4 (Higher) Apprenticeship can take anywhere from one to five years for you to complete. As an apprentice, you’ll spend most of your time working with an employer on projects which are directly related to the topics included in your apprenticeship. At level 4, there is a wide selection covering almost every job type. You’ll also spend 20% of your time studying at a college, university or training provider working towards your qualification with people from a wide range of different employers, giving you the perfect time to meet other like-minded apprentices. Everything you learn you’ll also be able to apply back to your everyday work, making your day-to-day job that little bit easier!

Don’t forget one of the most important things through all of this; you’ll be paid! As an apprentice, you’ll be paid at least Apprentice Minimum wage for the first year of your apprenticeship and then National Minimum Wage for your age group after that. However, we’ve seen some higher apprenticeships pay over £20,000 per annum from your first year – that’s a salary many graduates would be happy to receive! You’ll have the same benefits as other employees at your organisations, which includes paid holiday and as you’re an apprentice you’ll be able to get student discounts too. Don’t mind if I do!

Level 4 apprenticeships are a great opportunity if you want to academically challenge yourself but also want to start working in a professional environment.

FAQs

What are Level 4 apprenticeships like?

As a Level 4 apprentice, you’ll spend 80% of your time working with your employer and the rest of your time studying towards your level 4 qualification. You’ll be working at the office, factory, onsite or even working remotely depending on your employer and job requirements. You’ll also be studying with a university, college or training provider either in-person or online with plenty of opportunities to put your learning into practise in your day job.

Every apprenticeship is different because your employer is different and there will be a variety of projects that you could get involved with. Search opportunities and look at the job description to see exactly what you could be doing, but before you know it you could be managing projects, processes and even people as part of your programme!

You’ll be able to network and meet other like-minded people at work and those who have chosen the same route as you by doing an apprenticeship with your training provider, college or university. You’ll make new friends and likely have regular social events through work and your training provider!

What qualifications do I get?

If you chose to do a level 4 (higher) apprenticeship, you’ll gain a Apprenticeship at level 4 which might also include a qualification which could be a HND, Level 4 NVQ or BTEC, something from a professional body or a Foundation degree. You could also get – or work towards - chartered status in your role. This means being professionally recognised for your skills, knowledge and experience. In many areas of work, membership of a professional body is more important than a qualification on its own.

You could also work towards additional Functional Skills qualifications in maths and English too.

What’s the difference between level 4 and other higher apprenticeships?

Like all apprenticeships you will spend 80% of your time with the employer and 20% of your time working towards your qualification. The bit that varies with each apprenticeship is the level of qualification that you work towards, as well as the employer or training provider you choose. Level 4 apprenticeships are the lowest level of ‘Higher Apprenticeship’. It means that you’ll get a Level 4 qualification at the end of it, whereas if you choose a level 7 apprenticeship, you’ll get a Level 7 qualification at the end of it.

How do they work?

The way an apprenticeship work depends on the apprenticeship you choose to do and the employer and training provider that you choose. You’ll spend 20% of your time working towards a qualification, it is just how this is worked out could change. You might spend once a week training or spend block release away from work and training. The way this training is conducted also varies. You might train online in the workplace, at home or go to an external training provider, college or university.

Can I do a level 4 apprenticeship?

Entry requirements for level 4 apprenticeships vary depending on the employer and training provider that you apply through, however there are some basic requirements most (but not all) level 4 apprenticeships will require. You’ll likely need to have level 3 qualifications, such as a level 3 (advanced) apprenticeship, A-Levels, BTEC or NVQ. However, you may also be able to do the apprenticeship if you have relevant experience, or if you are retraining. We know of some graduates who are offered a Level 4 apprenticeship to gain new knowledge and skills when leaving University.

If you search for opportunities on the GetMyFirstJob website, entry requirements are listed for each opportunity, so you’ll know what you’ll need to get in. If you’re unsure, contact the person at the bottom of the opportunity listing!

What kind of Level 4 apprenticeships are there?

There are over 105 level 4 (higher) apprenticeships that you can do in the UK, some of them include:

Animal trainer
Associate Project Manager
Brewer
Business Analyst
Countryside ranger
Data Analyst
Marketing Executive
Network Engineer
Oral health practitioner
Senior culinary chef
Software Developer
Space engineering technician
Sports Coach
Town planning assistant

What does an employer look for in my application?

Level 4 (higher) apprenticeships can be competitive, as they are a great stepping stone into the world of work or a new discipline and there are always a limited number available. As with all jobs, make sure you know what the employer is looking for and tailor your application to explain why you’re a great candidate! If you’ve been able to gain some work experience, make sure you include that too. This doesn’t have to be a full-time job, a part-time role while you were at college or school would be a perfect example to show that you can handle the work/study/life balance. This will let them know that you can reliably hold down a job and possess good time management and prioritisation skills.

If you don’t have much experience, there are still ways that you can impress an employer. Make sure you emphasise these key skills on your application, whether that’s by using examples from extra-curricular activities or taking from experiences that you had at school, college or in your free time. To help you out with applications, we have compiled the three key traits that we think employers are looking for in our abundant experience operating alongside them:

Enthusiasm
You’ll need a genuine interest in the role and degree subject to work independently. It’s three years of your life – you’ll want enthusiasm to complete your work even when it gets tough!
Character
You’ll need to be mature enough to participate in the workplace and follow the etiquette there. That means someone who is dedicated to their work, studies and is a good fit for the company will be a crucial aspect of the apprenticeship application. Often, employers will use psychometric tests in the application process to find out more about you as a person – they’ll maybe even uncover things that you didn’t know about yourself!
Academic Ability
This is a very challenging option, and your employer doesn’t want to set you up to fail; after all, it’s in their best interests as well that you succeed! Grades aren’t everything, but you’ll need to make sure you can take on some of the harder academic aspects of the position.

What support will I get?

As a level 4 apprentice, you’ll get support from your employer and your training provider to ensure that you succeed in both your role and your qualification too. You’ll have someone at the training provider who will help you through the qualification and a manager in your workplace who will support you in your day-to-day job. You may even get a workplace mentor from the training provider or your employer who can help you with things you may not want to talk to your manager about, often mentors are people who have recently finished an apprenticeship themselves so can offer some sound advice!

How much does it cost?

Apart from commuting costs and the odd meal-deal if you’re working in the office or onsite, an apprenticeship is completely free, in fact you’ll be paid for doing an apprenticeship!

You’ll be paid at least Apprentice Minimum wage for the first year of your apprenticeship and then National Minimum Wage for your age group after that. We’ve seen some higher apprenticeships pay over £20,000 per annum from your first year – that’s a salary graduates would be happy to receive!

Are level 4 apprenticeships difficult?

Working towards a level 4 qualification on its own can be challenging as it will likely be the highest level of qualification you’ve worked towards. It’s true what people say that between college (level 3) and your first year of university (level 4) is probably the biggest academic jump you’ll make.

On top of this, you’ll also be working for four days a week, or 80% of your time, so you’ll have less time than people working towards a qualification full-time. But don’t worry, if you are successful in a level 4 apprenticeship application, your employer and training provider believe in you and want you to succeed, so they’ll support you to achieve everything you can!

What happens after the apprenticeship ends?

At the end of your level 4 (higher) apprenticeship, there are a few different things that could happen. You could be offered a permanent position at your current employer or you could be offered to go onto a different apprenticeship at a higher level. You should also consider the possibility that there isn’t a position for you at the end of your apprenticeship, so you could move onto a different qualification, employer or apprenticeship – your future is in your hands!

You’ll have the same benefits as other employees at your organisations, which includes paid holiday and as you’re an apprentice you’ll be able to get student discounts too.

Apprenticeships

Intermediate (Level 2) Advanced (Level 3) Higher (Level 4) Higher (Level 5) Degree (Level 6) Professional (Level 7)

Work Experience & Short-Term

Work Experience Traineeships Skills Bootcamps Internships

Education & Graduate

University Graduate Roles

Higher Level 4 Apprenticeships

Data Analyst Apprentice

QA Apprenticeships

pstrongAbout us:strongp pFounded in 1917, John Crane is a global leader in the design, manufacturing, and engineering of mission critical flow control solutions for increased efficiency, emission reductions and energy transformation. Our products include mechanical seals and systems, couplings, bearings, filtration systems and predictive digital monitoring technologies.p pJohn Crane customer service is accessed through a global network of more than 200 global sites in over 50 countries employing more than 6,000 employees worldwide. We partner with our customers and help them meet the latest environmental standards and keep their operations safe and controlled.p pstrongAbout the role:strongp pWe have a fantastic opportunity for a Data Analyst Apprentice to join our first Data Analytics Apprentice Academy in Slough. As an apprentice you will be involved in supporting our business transformation team by working with data-driven decision-making by assisting in the collection, analysis, and interpretation of critical data.p pThis Level 4 Apprenticeship is designed to provide hands-on experience in data analytics and you will contribute to key projects and initiatives across our business. You will be rotated through our various information domains: quality and engineering, manufacturing performance, market performance and sales and delivery performance. This will give you the knowledge to understand how critical data is in our decision making to drive our business forwards.p pstrongResponsibilities:strongp ul liUse tools such as SharePoint, Power BI and Databricks (SQL, Python) to perform basic data analysis.li liCreate visualisations and dashboards to communicate insights effectively.li liSupport the development of regular and ad-hoc reports for business.li liWork collaboratively with internal stakeholders to understand data requirements and business challenges.li liParticipate in meetings and workshops to gather feedback and refine analytical outputs.li liCommunicate findings in a clear and accessible manner to non-technical audiences.li liManage key projects from conception through to completion. Ensuring key milestones are hit and project delivers objectives on time and within cost.li ul pstrongDesirable skills:strongp ul liHave a keen interest in data analysis and a desire to learn.li liCommitted to learning and working at the same time.li liAdvanced MS Office skills.li liDecision making ability and good influencing team working skills.li liStrong communication skills and the ability to work well in a team.li liTime management and organisational skills.li liDriving licence and own vehicle (due to location of the office).li ul pstrongEntry requirements:strongp pstrongStandard entry:strongp ul liLevel 3 qualification (apprenticeshipA-levelsBTEC, etc)li liOR equivalent work experience (typically two years in a relevant role)li ul pstrongPlus:strongp ul li5 GCSEs, including English and Maths at Grade 4 (C) or aboveli liExperience with using Excel and Microsoft products (or similar)li ul pYou may also have a combination of qualifications and experience which demonstrate the minimum foundation needed for the programme. In this instance you could still be considered for the programme.p pIf you hold international equivalents of the above qualifications, at the time of your application you must be able to provide an official document that states how your international qualifications compare to the UK qualifications.p pstrongFor more information please visit the UK ENIC website. strongp pstrongWorking hours:strong 37.5 hours per week, 9am 5pm.p pstrongWhat we offer:strongp ul listrongEducation: strongYou will be enrolled onto the Level 4 Data Analyst Apprenticeship standard which will be delivered remotely by our training partner QA.li listrongLearning opportunities:strong Gain practical data analysis skills and learn from experts around you.li listrongRotations:strong You will have the opportunity to rotate across different teams to broaden your knowledge and skillsli listrongProfessional development:strong Develop professional skills such as writing, communication, time management, and teamwork.li listrongImpactful work:strong Contribute to enhancing revenue, delivery performance, efficiency, technical reputation, and customer satisfaction.li ul pstrongFuture prospects:strongp pBy the end of this 2-year Level 4 apprenticeship, there may be the option to progress onto higher level apprenticeship qualifications.p pstrongAbout QA:strongp pOur apprenticeships are the perfect way to gain new skills, earn while you learn, and launch yourself into an exciting future. With over 50,000 successful apprenticeship graduates, we’re a top 50 training provider, dedicated to helping you succeed.p pstrongInterested? Apply now!strongp pstrongemPlease be advised that this advert may close prior to the closing date stated above if a high number of applications are received. If you are interested in this vacancy please apply below as soon as possible. emstrongp

Location: Berkshire Data analysts 11.54 per hour Berkshire

Higher Level 4 Apprenticeship

Posted 1 day ago 27 days until closing

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New Listing

Network Engineer Apprentice

QA Apprenticeships

pstrongAre you passionate about technology and looking to build a hands-on career in IT? Were looking for an enthusiastic Network Engineer Apprentice to join our growing team at Centurion supporting clients across the UK with IT systems, software, and infrastructure.strongp pThis is a fantastic opportunity to gain real-world experience while working towards a Network Engineer Level 4 apprenticeship, fully funded through the government.p pstrongWhat youll be doing:strongp ul liSupporting the setup, testing, and installation of in-house software and associated hardwareli liProviding remote and on-site technical support to clientsli liDiagnosing and resolving IT issues using remote tools and hands-on troubleshootingli liBuilding, configuring, and maintaining PCs, laptops, and network equipmentli liInstalling and maintaining cabling (Cat67 and fibre)li liAssisting with user accounts, software installation, and system configurationli liContributing to the continuous improvement of Centurions IT systems and processesli ul pstrongWhat were looking for:strongp ul liA self-starter with strong attention to detail and a willingness to learnli liGood organisational and time management skillsli liA passion for IT and problem-solving ideally with some knowledge of Windows 1011, networking, or hardwareli liConfidence using tools like MS Office, Active Directory, or remote access software (experience a bonus, not essential)li liA full UK driving licence (strongrequired for on-site client visitsstrong)li ul pstrongEntry requirements:strongp ul lian A-Level in ICTli liOR an International Baccalaureate at Level 3 ICTli liOR a Level 3 apprenticeship in a similar subjectli liOR a BTEC Extended Diploma in IT (180 credits)li ul pYou may also have a combination of qualifications and experience which demonstrate the minimum foundation needed for the programme. In this instance you could still be considered for the programme.p pIf you hold international equivalents of the above qualifications, at the time of your application you must be able to provide an official document that states how your international qualifications compare to the UK qualifications.p pstrongFor more information please visit the UK ENIC website. strongp pstrongWorking hours:strong 37.5 hours per week, flexible, weekend availability.p pstrongWhat we offer:strongp ul li20 days annual leave plus UK bank holidaysli liCompany pension schemeli liEarn while you learn with a nationally recognised qualificationli liOngoing mentorship and career progression opportunitiesli liA supportive environment to grow your skills in IT infrastructure and field supportli ul pstrongFuture prospects:strongp p90 of QA apprentices secure permanent employment after completing: this is 20 higher than the national average.p pstrongAbout QA:strongp pOur apprenticeships are the perfect way to gain new skills, earn while you learn, and launch yourself into an exciting future. With over 50,000 successful apprenticeship graduates, we’re a top 50 training provider, dedicated to helping you succeed.p pstrongInterested? Apply now!strongp pstrongemPlease be advised that this advert may close prior to the closing date stated above if a high number of applications are received. If you are interested in this vacancy please apply below as soon as possible. emstrongp

Location: Northumberland IT network professionals 9.62 per hour Northumberland

Higher Level 4 Apprenticeship

Posted 2 days ago 26 days until closing

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New Listing

IT Digital Support Apprentice

QA Apprenticeships

pstrongEmployer description:strongp pCrawford Henderson are looking for an apprentice to come in and learn how their factory works, before ultimately taking control of the technical side of the production line.p pThey manufacture heavily customised merchandise for some rather illustrious clients, and have a factory full of hi-tech production equipment, as-well-as traditional machinery, the like of which is rarely seen nowadays.p pThis is a fantastic opportunity for a young person with a positive, constructive attitude to grow with our business, and ultimately create their own unique role and they will be fully supported in doing so.p pstrongOverview: strongp ul liCreating and running digital print jobs on our large format digital printersli liCreating and running digital cutting jobs on our large format digital cutting tableli liLiaising with our design team to create job specific digital print and cut filesli liProgramming automatic sewing machinesli liSetting up automatic stitching jobsli liSetting up foil printers for traditional foil printing and embossing runsli liMaintaining full suite of production equipment, including hydraulic cutting presses, digital printing equipment, foil printing equipment, sewing machines etcli liTake a leading role in R&D projects, focussed on production improvements (using automation and AI)li ul pstrongDesirable skills:strongp ul liHigh attention to detail.li liGreat organisation skills and willing to learn.li liDrivers license is required for this role.li ul pstrongSalary:strong 19,864 per annum.p pstrongWorking hours:strongMonday to Friday, 8am - 5pm.p pstrongBenefits:strongp ul liEmployee discount.li liEmployee pension.li ul pThroughout your apprenticeship you are supported by your skills coach and your account manager. They work with your line manager to ensure you settle in, help you develop all the skills you need to pass your assessments, and can provide one to one support. At the end, as well as the valuable experience you have gained, you get a nationally recognised qualification.p pstrongFuture prospects:strongbr You will gain a full-time role upon successful completion of the apprenticeship.p pstrongImportant information:strongbr This vocational apprenticeship comprehensively supports your specific job role with this particular employer. Throughout your learning journey, you are fully supported by your dedicated QA skills coach and your mentor at work. They ensure you settle in, help you develop all the skills you need to be successful in your job role and pass your assessments, and can provide one to one support.p pStarting with insights into your current potential, they plan your growth in a programmatic way, close skills gaps with immersive training and ensure what you learn is applicable to what you do. They talk you through the specifics on the qualifications you gain and how they align in particular to your day to day role.p pOn completion, as well as the valuable work experience you have gained, you get a nationally recognised qualification atstrongSCQF Level 6. strongp pIf you are interested in starting your career and receiving a work based qualification at the same time,strongAPPLY NOW!strongp

Location: Essex IT quality and testing professionals 9.55 per hour Essex

Higher Level 4 Apprenticeship

Posted 3 days ago 25 days until closing

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New Listing

Cyber Security Apprentice

QA Apprenticeships

pstrongAt Trafford Council we are EPIC!strongp pstrongWe EMPOWER strongWe inspire and trust our people to deliver the best outcomes for our customers, communities and colleagues.p pstrongWe are PEOPLE CENTRED strongWe value all people, within and external to the organisation and give those around us respect. We will act with honesty and integrity in all that we do and create an environment that enables everyone we work with to thrive and succeed.p pstrongWe are INCLUSIVE strongWe are committed to creating an environment that values and respects the diversity and richness differences bring.p pstrongWe COLLABORATE strongWe build relationships, collaborate; treat people as equal partners and work together to make things happen.p pTrafford is a lively, prosperous place to put down roots and build a career. The council and Trafford schools employ around 8,000 people, who are central to making the area great. In return for their commitment, the council offers its employees development opportunities, as well as a fair and flexible workplace. The council is a Living Wage Employer.p pstrongResponsibilities:strongp ul liAssist in monitoring network traffic and using SIEM tools (e.g. FortiSIEM, Microsoft Sentinel) to detect suspicious activity and triage security risks.li liSupport incident reporting and response, including risk assessments and vulnerability scans.li liGain hands-on experience managing firewalls, antivirus, endpoint security, patching, and software updates.li liCollaborate with IT, Legal, and other departments to ensure a unified security approach, including third-party risk assessments.li liMonitor and respond to the IT Security Queue (CVE updates, service requests, incidents, bulletins).li liAssess and manage tickets, ensuring priority issues are resolved within 48 hours.li liHandle walk-up incidents and participate in major incident responses.li liSupport the ICT security incident response process and maintain the ICT Risk Register.li liManage security dashboards (SIEM, FortiMail, FortiConsole, SOPHOS, Windows Defender).li liOversee job assignments and SLA performance across teams.li liSupport projects aligned with the Cyber Assessment Framework (CAF).li liAssist in updating and maintaining IT security policies and procedures.li liSupport strategic projects.li ul pstrongDesirable skills:strongp ul liStronginterpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to explain technical concepts clearly to non-technical users.li liProvenproblem-solving and troubleshooting abilities, with a proactive approach to resolving issues and taking ownership.li liEffectiveplanning and organisational skills, able to prioritise tasks, meet deadlines, and adapt to changing priorities.li liHigh attention to detail in recording accurate information and working across different systems and processes.li liAbility to work bothindependently and collaborativelywithin a team, with minimal supervision.li liGoodnumerical skillsand a customer-focused mindset.li liDriving licence and own vehicle due to the location of the office.li ul pstrongEntry requirements:strongp ul liAn A-Level in ICTli liOR an International Baccalaureate at Level 3 in ICTli liOR a Level 3 apprenticeship in a similar subjectli liOR a BTEC Extended Diploma in IT (180 credits)li ul pYou may also have a combination of qualifications and experience which demonstrate the minimum foundation needed for the programme. In this instance you could still be considered for the programme.p pIf you hold international equivalents of the above qualifications, at the time of your application you must be able to provide an official document that states how your international qualifications compare to the UK qualifications.p pstrongFor more information please visit the UK ENIC website. strongp pstrongWorking hours:strong 36.25 hours per week.p pstrongBenefits:strongp pYou will be welcomed into a friendly environment where your personal and professional development will be encouraged. You will have the opportunity to work and grow in a people-centred and values-based organisation that promotes a positive permission culture. Your opinions matter so you will have the opportunity to shape how we do things here at Trafford. We also offer hybrid working.p pstrongFuture prospects:strongp p90 of QA apprentices secure permanent employment after completing: this is 20 higher than the national average.p pstrongAbout QA:strongp pOur apprenticeships are the perfect way to gain new skills, earn while you learn, and launch yourself into an exciting future. With over 50,000 successful apprenticeship graduates, we’re a top 50 training provider, dedicated to helping you succeed.p pstrongInterested? Apply now!strongp pstrongemPlease be advised that this advert may close prior to the closing date stated above if a high number of applications are received. If you are interested in this vacancy please apply below as soon as possible. emstrongp

Location: Essex IT network professionals 12.49 per hour Essex

Higher Level 4 Apprenticeship

Posted 3 days ago 25 days until closing