Career opportunities

Everything to know about being a level 3 Motor finance specialist apprentice.

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imagery of car and form behind symbolising nature of the business

Everything to know about being a level 3 Motor finance specialist apprentice.

 Introduction to the programme:                                                                                                        

Thinking about becoming a motor finance specialist ? This is an ever changing faced past industry where there’s always something new on the horizon. In this blog we will breakdown the course itself, explore potential career paths and generally find out if this is something for you. 

Program details/ entry requirements.

This Legal, finance and accounting based course may see you undertaking many skill based tasks. Primarily  offering customers advice on finance packages while purchasing vehicles.

To enrol into this course entrants must have at least a level 2 qualification in both maths and english. The duration of the program can range from 18 – 24 months, and upon completion you will be awarded with the level 3 Motor finance specialist qualification giving you a great step into a career. 

row of cars lined up symbolising the motor and apprenticeship industry

Competencies

During the programme you will have to demonstrate key knowledge under 5 competencies those being: 

  • Market awareness – How a product is offered to companies and knowledge around how regulation can affect the sales of funding.
  • Motor Finance Products a deep understanding of motor finance packages available to customers including ownership and extended/cosmetic warranties. 
  • Regulatory taxation and compliance- An understanding of motor finance regulations is vital for influencing customers choices based on legislation taxation and also VAT principles. 
  • Business awareness – Apprentices must demonstrate business strategy as well how their own role fits into the overall organisation and motor finance industry itself . 
  • System and processes- Knowledge must be present of all systems and processes that may be used in the role as well as all standards. 

Upon demonstration of all competencies, apprentices will complete the course. And gain a recognised qualification. Once  the programme has been completed potential career paths become more present. Those including: Dealer Support, Finance and Insurance Manager, Customer Adviser, Business Manager, Account Manager.

red car with motor behind symbolising a credit checker which is relevant to motor finance

For further reading or information visit : https://www.instituteforapprenticeships.org/apprenticeship-standards/motor-finance-specialist/

Level 2 Pharmacy Services Assistant apprenticeship: A step into the future

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Pharmacy Services Assistants (PSAs) play a vital role in the running of pharmacies across the UK. They provide a range of essential services to patients, including dispensing medication, providing advice on medicines, and taking blood pressure and weight.

Why are Pharmacies in high demand?

  • An ageing population. There is an increasing demand for healthcare services, including pharmacy services.
  • A rise in chronic diseases. Diseases such as diabetes and heart disease are also on the rise, which is driving demand for pharmacy services.
  • A shortage of GPs. This is putting additional pressure on pharmacies.
  • An expansion of the role of pharmacists. Pharmacists now provide a range of services such as medication reviews and vaccinations.
  • In addition to these factors, the COVID-19 pandemic has also highlighted the importance of pharmacies in the UK. Pharmacies have played a vital role in the pandemic response, providing essential services such as testing and vaccinations.
  • As a result of these factors, the demand for pharmacy services in the UK is expected to continue to grow in the coming years. This is good news for people who are interested in a career in pharmacy, as there are likely to be plenty of job opportunities available.

A Level 2 Pharmacy Services Assistant apprenticeship is a great way to learn the skills and knowledge you need to start a career in pharmacy. The apprenticeship combines on-the-job training with formal learning at a college or training provider, the duration is 12-15 months long.

What will you learn on a Level 2 Pharmacy Services Assistant apprenticeship?

On a Level 2 Pharmacy Services Assistant apprenticeship, you will learn about:

  • The different types of medicines and how they work 
  • How to dispense medication safely and accurately
  • How to provide advice on medicines to patients
  • How to take blood pressure and weight
  • How to use pharmacy software
  • How to maintain pharmacy stock levels
  • How to keep pharmacy records
  • How to deal with customer queries and complaints

For more detailed information on the above please follow – https://www.instituteforapprenticeships.org/apprenticeship-standards/pharmacy-services-assistant/

What are the benefits of doing a Level 2 Pharmacy Services Assistant apprenticeship?

There are many benefits to doing a Level 2 Pharmacy Services Assistant apprenticeship, including:

  • You will learn the skills and knowledge you need to start a career in pharmacy
  • You will earn a salary while you learn
  • You will have the opportunity to gain experience working in a real pharmacy setting
  • You will be supported by experienced pharmacy professionals
  • You will be eligible for a nationally recognised qualification

What are the career prospects for this level 2 apprenticeship?

  • Progress to a Level 3 apprenticeship or higher. Many apprentices choose to progress to higher-level apprenticeships to develop their skills and knowledge further. This can lead to more senior and specialised roles.
  • Gain professional qualifications. Some Level 2 apprenticeships can lead to professional qualifications, such as the Pharmacy Technician National Examination (PTN). 
  • Secure a permanent job with their apprenticeship employer. Many employers offer apprentices a permanent job at the end of their apprenticeship.

Overall, the prospects for people who complete a Level 2 apprenticeship are very good. Apprentices are highly valued by employers, and there is a wide range of job opportunities available to them. Apprentices also have the opportunity to progress to higher-level apprenticeships and professional qualifications, which can lead to even more career opportunities.

What should I consider will be the potential next steps from this Level 2 Pharmacy Services Assistant apprenticeship?

  • After completing an apprenticeship, you could progress to a role as a Senior Pharmacy Services Assistant, Pharmacy Technician, or Pharmacy Dispenser. You could also move into a management role within a pharmacy, or into a related field such as healthcare administration or pharmaceutical sales.
  • Progress to a Level 3 Pharmacy Technician apprenticeship. This will give you the skills and knowledge you need to work as a qualified Pharmacy Technician. Pharmacy Technicians have a wider range of responsibilities than PSAs, including dispensing medications, preparing medications for dispensing, and providing medication counselling to patients.
  • Apply for a job as a Pharmacy Technician. Once you have completed your Level 2 apprenticeship, you can apply for jobs as a Pharmacy Technician. Many pharmacies are eager to hire qualified Pharmacy Technicians, so you should have good job prospects.
  • Study for the Pharmacy Technician National Examination (PTN). The PTN is a professional qualification for Pharmacy Technicians. Passing the PTN will demonstrate to employers that you have the skills and knowledge to work as a qualified Pharmacy Technician.
  • In addition to these next steps, you may also want to consider pursuing further education or training. For example, you could take courses in pharmacy law, ethics, or patient counselling. You could also pursue a degree in pharmacy, which would allow you to become a pharmacist.

What are the exams you will have to take to qualify? 

  • Assessment Method 1:Knowledge Test
  • Assessment Method 2 Simulated Observation with question and answer session
  • Assessment Method 3 Professional Discussion Based on a Portfolio of Evidence
  • Overall grading

Please see the link here for an in-depth understanding of grading – https://www.instituteforapprenticeships.org/media/7357/st0299_pharmacy_services_assistant_l2_assessment-plan-for-publishing-20122018em.pdf

What are the desired characteristics? 

  • Be trustworthy and honest, respectful and caring
  • Act with integrity and fair conduct, have the courage to say when something is wrong
  • Be a reliable and capable member of the workforce and recognise your value and that of your team
  • Display effective interpersonal skills
  • Respect patients’ values
This is demonstrating the day to day work within the Pharmacy.

What are the desired qualifications? 

Apprentices without level 1 English and Maths will need to achieve this level and take the test for level 2 English and Maths before taking the end-point assessment. For those with an education, health and care plan or a legacy statement the apprenticeship English and maths minimum requirement is Entry Level 3 and British Sign L. 

Overall, if you are interested in a rewarding career, a Level 2 Pharmacy Services Assistant apprenticeship is a great way to get started. Apprenticeships offer many benefits, including earning a salary while you learn, gaining valuable experience in a fast-paced and rewarding career field, pursuing a career that is in high demand, and having the opportunity to progress to higher-level apprenticeships and professional qualifications.

With the right training and experience, you can have a successful and fulfilling career as a Pharmacy Services Assistant. So, if you are thinking about a career in pharmacy, I encourage you to consider a Level 2 Pharmacy Services Assistant apprenticeship. You won’t be disappointed! Please see this link to find out more – https://www.apprenticetips.com/

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Level 3 Apprenticeship: Discover The Art of Pipe Welding

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Learn all about the Level 3 Pipe Welding Apprenticeship. Pipe Welding can be found across diverse sectors like Engineering Construction, Oil & Gas, Chemicals & Pharmaceuticals, Power Generation, and more. They are the skilled craftsmen who forge the vital connections that keep these industries working. In short, they manually weld tubes and pipes to high standards of quality. In this blog, we will delve into the world of pipe welding, exploring the importance of this occupation and the skills required.

This apprenticeship standard is recognised by: The Welding Institute for Engineering Technician (Duration: 48 Months)

”Pipe welders are the uncelebrated heroes binding our industries together.”

A view of the silver gloved hands of a worker grinding a piece of metal causing sparks to ignite
A view of the silver gloved hands of a Pipe Welder grinding a piece of metal causing sparks to ignite

Pipe Welding for a challenge & variety

Pipe welders are skilled in a variety of welding processes because each process requires distinct equipment, controls, skills, and techniques. Additionally, they must be comfortable welding in various positions and joint configurations, ensuring the integrity of the final product.

Pipe welders take responsibility for the safety, quality, and accuracy of their work but also to assure the integrity of the entire system, they are in charge of cleanliness. Depending on the size of the organisation and sector, their roles can vary from working alone to part of a larger team.

Major infrastructure projects NEED Pipe Welders

The maintenance of major infrastructure projects rely on pipe welders instrumental role. For example, by doing the stringent engineering specifications they are ensuring the safe and reliable operation of piping systems.

How Do You Become A Pipe Welding Apprentice?

Do you have the right qualifications? Before your end-point assessment you must have a Level 2 in English and maths. Or even in some cases, an entry Level 3

Dedication, Focus, and Responsibility: As a Pipe Welding apprentice, you’ll need to embody dedication, focus, and a strong sense of responsibility showing these qualities are the foundation of your path to success.

Seek Guidance and Learning: To excel in this field, seeking guidance to understand the intricate processes and various industrial applications is crucial in continuous learning, your ally.

Commit to Competence and Goals: Make a commitment to maintaining your competence through ongoing professional development by setting clear goals for yourself and work diligently to reach them.

Support and Assess Risk: Be someone who supports the development of your peers. Support and vigilance ensure a safer work environment.

What skills will you learn on this Apprenticeship?

Is this Apprenticeship right for you? Here are some of the duties associated with this occupation:

  • How to plan preparatory tasks and coordinate pipe welding activities before starting work.
  • Arranging and assembling necessary welding equipment and safety gear for each task
  • The right way to prep, inspect, and secure materials and work areas for welding.
  • Receiving, inspecting, and maintain consumables.

  • Checking materials conform to the specified grades, dimensions, thicknesses and diameters.
  • Upon completing the welding, restoring the work area, equipment, and purging devices to a safe and reliable condition.
  • Read and use technical specs, inspection criteria, and drawings to set welding process controls, bore protection methods, and select consumables.

Conclusion

In summary, the craft of pipe welding stands as a bedrock in various industries, ensuring the secure and seamless functioning of critical piping systems. A pipe welding apprenticeship will offer you a competitive salary, skills that are in high demand, job security and more.

If you’re intrigued by apprenticeships in general, we invite you to take a look at our other opportunities whilst staying informed about the latest apprenticeship tips and prospects. Consider following us on platforms like X or LinkedIn and your follow will connect you to a world of new possibilities and insights.

Find out more on Pipe Welding Here!

Apprenticeship in Water Process Operations: A Career with a Difference

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Apprentice and mentor looking at pipes for her Water Process Operations apprenticeship

If you’re looking for a unique job, have you thought about doing an Apprenticeship in Water Process Operations? As a water process operative, you will be responsible for making sure that our drinking water is clean and safe. This apprenticeship is a level 2 and it takes 18 months to complete! Do you think you have what it takes? Have a look at this blog and see what it takes!

What exactly is a Water Process Operator?

A water process operative is in charge of the operation and maintenance of the water treatment and supply equipment. This involves checking and managing the purification procedures, making sure that the water is safe to drink. It involves finding any problems that may affect the water’s quality.

Water process operatives do routine equipment maintenance. They work with other water industry specialists to make sure that the water treatment process works properly.

What Is Involved in the apprenticeship to become a Water Process Operative?

A water process operative apprenticeship includes both on-the-job and formal classroom learning. During your apprenticeship, you will learn about the water treatment process. You will also learn the skills needed to work and look after the equipment.

You will also learn about health and safety rules and regulations, as well as environmental standards. You’ll learn how to recognise and respond to any risks which could lead to possible problems.

During your apprenticeship, you will work with experienced water process employees, so you will benefit from their knowledge.

Woman looking facing the left with a blue hue of information surrounding her. Knowledge is power
Knowledge is POWER!

Here are some of the skills you will be learning:

  • Organising and prioritising work. 
  • Identifying risks and control measures. 
  • Following health and safety and environmental laws, rules and practice.
  • Reading and understanding information/data. 
  • Carrying out sensory analysis. 
  • Choosing and using tools and equipment.
  • Checking/measuring equipment. 
  • Using chemicals. 
  • Checking chemicals.
  • Taking a clean water sample and testing it. 
  • Taking a wastewater sample and testing it. 

What are the Admission Requirements?

You will need to have a minimum of 5 GCSEs, including Maths, English and Science, to apply for a water process operative apprenticeship. Some work takes place in confined spaces, so you may be needed to pass a medical test.

To also be considered for an Apprenticeship in Water Process Operations, you must be physically healthy. This is because the job may include manual handling and working outside in all weather situations.

What are the Career Opportunities after an Apprenticeship in Water Process Operations?

You might start your work as a trainee water process operative after finishing your apprenticeship. As you gain experience, then you could have the chance for promotion. Senior positions include roles such as Shift Supervisor or Team Leader.

You could also choose to work in a specific area of water treatment, such as wastewater treatment or water quality monitoring.

The water industry is an important part of our infrastructure, so qualified water process workers are in great demand. If you work hard and get the necessary skills, then you will have a good chance of getting a job.

As a summary 

A water process operative apprenticeship can lead to a good career. It’s a job with long-term possibilities and employment stability, so there are chances for promotion and specialisation. On-the-job training and support will give you the skills and experience you need for a successful career in water treatment and supply.

Do you think you have what it takes to be in water process operations as a career? Let us know in the comments!

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If you want to find out more tips and other apprenticeships please check out our latest posts, here! Thanks for reading.