Become an apprentice
Apprenticeships come at all different levels and across many different roles and sectors which makes apprenticeships suitable for everyone. Whether you’re wanting to start your career, looking for a change or upskilling in your current job an apprenticeship may be the right path for you.
Search for apprenticeships
Businesses throughout Chesterfield and North Derbyshire employ a large number of apprentices and there are currently hundreds of vacancies available in and around town.
If you are looking to become an apprentice in Chesterfield, use our search tool to browse the current apprenticeship vacancies in the local area.
What is an apprenticeship?
An apprenticeship provides the opportunity to learn on the job, gain experience and get paid. By the end of an apprenticeship, you will have gained the skills and knowledge needed to progress in your chosen career.
It can take anywhere between one and 6 years to complete apprenticeship training depending on the type of apprenticeship and level you choose. Learn more about becoming an apprentice.
Levels of an apprenticeship
Apprenticeships range from level 2 all the way to degree level:
- Foundation apprenticeships – in construction and the built environment, engineering and manufacturing, digital and health and social care
- Intermediate level 2 – equivalent to GCSE
- Advanced level 3 – equivalent to A level
- Higher level 4 and 5 – equivalent to a Foundation degree and above
- Degree level 6 and 7 – equivalent to a bachelor’s or master’s degree (from January 2026, funding for level 7 apprenticeships will only be available for young people aged 16-21, care leavers under 25 and those with an Education, Health and Care Plan. )
At the end of your apprenticeship, you’ll achieve the equivalent education level and can work your way up the different levels.
Apprenticeships, what’s in it for me?
“I never learnt well in a classroom. So being able to learn, hands-on, and earning at the same time. It was a no-brainer to me.” – Samuel Jinks, Level 2 Apprentice Roofer, Dalton Roofing.
There is a host of different benefits to choose the apprenticeship route and here is just a few of them:
- Earn while you learn
- Develop new skills
- Degrees without fees
- Career progression
- Breadth of opportunity
The parent perspective
How can you support your child if they’re considering an apprenticeship?
- Do your research. Learn about the different apprenticeship paths, levels and sectors so you can help your child understand their options and what each route involves.
- Support them to find an apprenticeship. Encourage your child to explore vacancies, attend careers fairs, and speak with employers, teachers, or careers advisers to discover opportunities that match their interests and goals.
- Help them prepare for applications and interviews. From reviewing their CV and practising interview questions to helping them feel confident about what they can offer an employer.
Find more practical tips to help you support your child if they’re considering an apprenticeship.
