Higher Level Apprenticeships (HLAs)

1. Earn while you learn
   You will receive at least Minimum Wage (HLA) for the duration of your studies including College Day!
2. Experienced Mentor 
   Work with and learn from professionals with years of experience in your chosen industry
3. Just 1 day per week in College
   Complete your HLA (Foundation Degree or Diploma) with just 1 day or evening per week in College over 2 years (3 years for Mechatronics and Culinary Arts)
4. No fees = No Student Loans
   Your course will be fully funded by the Department for the Economy which means no student debt!
5. Fantastic career opportunities
   You have a job from day one which opens many opportunities for progression/promotion within your company

t and interview skills at careers@serc.ac.uk

Opportunities are available for you to gain qualifications from Level 4 upwards if you are a new employee or an existing employee in a new job role. Entry requirements will depend on the apprenticeship pathway.

To take part in the Higher Level Apprenticeship programme you need, as a minimum, to:

• be employed or be about to take up permanent paid employment as an apprentice, or be an existing employee moving to a new job role, with a Northern Ireland based company
• work a minimum of 21 hours per week (which includes time for ‘off-the-job’ training)
• have achieved all necessary entry qualifications determined by the relevant sector
• pass any entry tests specified by the relevant sector
• be the minimum school leaving age in Northern Ireland (18)

You may need to meet other eligibility considerations, for example you may not be eligible if you're a non-EU national, a public sector worker or already have a recognised vocational qualification.

• Contact employers directly by email, telephone or call in with your CV
• Contact your local College – email us for support at any time in they year!
• Look for vacancies online (employer websites or job search website such as Job Centre Online
• Have you previously done a school work placement? Contact them if aligned with your chosen industry
• Contact SERC’s career service for free advice, CV support and interview skills at careers@serc.ac.uk

An HLA is a Level 4/5 Qualification for new employees or for existing employees who are upskilling/entering a new job role.

• Main qualification is a Foundation Degree or Level 4/5 Diploma, achieved over 2 years (3 years for Mechatronics and Computing)
• It is an employment contract, working 4 days per week with your employer and studying in College 1 day per week. You are also paid for your day in College!
• Entry requirements vary but generally include GCSE Maths & English at grace C or above and A Levels or a Level 3 Certificate/Diploma