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How Apprenticeships Work

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See our Apprenticeships

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What is an Apprenticeship?

Apprenticeships are a dynamic way to gain real-world experience, earn a salary, and achieve a nationally recognised qualification – all at the same time. Think of it as a direct route to the jobs of tomorrow, empowering you with the skills that employers are actively searching for, especially in fast-growing fields like AI and data.
Unlike a traditional university degree, an apprenticeship is a work-based training programme. You get hands-on experience from day one, applying what you learn directly to a job role. It's the perfect blend of theory and practice, designed to give you a competitive edge.

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Ettie Bashford, Senior Health Officer

After five years at Virgin, Ettie transitioned to the Health Team and saw an opportunity to use data. With no prior experience, she began a Level 3 Data Citizen Apprenticeship. Its flexible format and strong support helped her quickly build skills and solve real-world challenges.

Your Apprenticeship, Your Future: What's in it for you?

An apprenticeship is a direct launchpad for your career, offering a unique blend of learning and earning. You'll gain valuable real-world skills by working on live business projects from day one. By the end of your programme, you'll have a nationally recognised qualification and a strong foundation for career progression. You’re be part of a community of peers and supported by a coach and mentor, with regular 1-2-1’s, meaning you’re never on your own.

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Earn while you learn

Apprenticeships are undertaken alongside your job

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Real World Skills

Our programmes ensure you learn the most relevant in demand skills in data & AI

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Gain a Qualification

You'll complete you're apprenticeship with a nationally recognised qualification

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Career Progression

Apprenticeships are a direct pipeline to senior roles

Eligibility

 

To be eligible for an apprenticeship, you must meet the below criteria, as set by the governments funding requirements:

 

  • Employed in a relevant role in England with a contract in place for the duration of the programme.
  • No significant prior experience in the programme you are looking to enrol on.
  • Employed in England and resident in the UK or EEA for the last 3 years.
  • Option to opt in / out of Functional Skills (for 19+ years of age), depending on prior attainment of Level 2 / GCSE English and Maths (or equivalent) at grade C or above.
  • Can commit to the minimum planned weekly hours off the job learning - required for the duration of the programme.

How an Apprenticeship Works

 

Your apprenticeship is a partnership between you, your employer, and Cambridge Spark. Here’s a quick overview of what to expect:

 

  • Skills Assessment: We start with an initial assessment to understand your current skills and career goals, helping to place you on the right programme.

  • Blended Learning: Your training combines live, interactive workshops, self-study, and hands-on project work. The time commitment can vary per programme, but usually requires a set amount per week of protected learning time.

  • Dedicated Support: You'll have a team behind you, including expert trainers, data mentors, and a personal success coach.

  • Work-Based Projects: You'll apply what you learn to real projects within your role, building a portfolio of work that demonstrates your impact.

  • Final Assessment: At the end of your programme, you'll complete an assessment to earn your official qualification.
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"I'm working on a project that requires me to use complex data sets using SQL. Not only am I learning something new, I can immediately apply what I'm learning to my day-to-day work back at the office. My tasks have been simplified, significantly with the new skills and knowledge I'm learning on my course."

Abby Echave; Senior Business Intelligence Analyst, NHS

What Can You Learn?

 

We offer a range of apprenticeships designed to meet the growing demand for skilled professionals in AI and data. Each programme is a stepping stone to a rewarding career.

Apprenticeship

Level

Duration

AI Champion 

3

13 months

AI Transformation Specialist

4

14 months

AI Leader

5

12 months

AI Engineer 

6

15 months

AI & Data Science

7

15 months

Data Citizen

3

13 months

Data Analyst

4

14 months

Data Engineer 

5

15 months

Digital Product Manager

4

15 months

 

How to Apply

Your apprenticeship is a partnership between you, your employer, and Cambridge Spark. Here’s a quick overview of what to do to apply:

Step 1

Find the Right Programme

Begin by exploring what an apprenticeship involves, the programmes available, and how they align with your career goals. This stage is about recognising the benefits of combining work with structured learning to gain a recognised qualification.

Step 2

Check Eligibility & Employer Support

Confirm you meet the eligibility criteria, such as age, contracted hours, and working mainly in England. At the same time, discuss the opportunity with your line manager and employer. Their support and sign-off are essential, as they will help shape your projects and provide ongoing guidance.

Step 3

Apply & Get Selected

Complete the provider’s application process, which usually involves a skills scan, a personal statement, and an interview. This ensures the apprenticeship is suited to your role and sets clear expectations for what you will achieve.

Step 4

Onboard & Get Started

Once accepted, you’ll join an induction to learn how the programme works, what modules you’ll cover, and how off-the-job learning is managed. You’ll also meet your mentors and coaches who will support you throughout.

Ready to Start Your Journey?

Find out what apprenticeship is best for you and contact our team.

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