Become an Apprentice
An apprenticeship is a great option if you want to start building your skills in a real workplace while still developing your knowledge at College. It’s a practical, hands-on way to grow your confidence, explore a career that feels right for you and get paid at the same time!
What an apprenticeship involves
As an apprentice, you’ll split your time between College and your workplace.
You’ll learn from people who do the job every day, supported by tutors who know how to guide you through your next steps.
You can expect:
- A paid job with a local employer
- Time at College to build your knowledge and grow your confidence
- Hands-on experience from day one
- A qualification at the end that opens doors to your next move
Why study an apprenticeship?
Real work experience
You’ll work in a real workplace environment, putting theory into practice, learning what employers need, and developing job-ready skills.
Earn while you learn
You get paid for the work you do during your apprenticeship, so you’re earning an income and gaining skills at the same time.
Qualifications without large debt
Apprenticeships lead to nationally recognised qualifications (sometimes up to degree level) without many of the tuition fees or student debts associated with full‐time university.
Good progression & employability
Completing an apprenticeship often gives you a head start when applying for full‐time jobs, perhaps even staying with the employer who trained you.
Support & structured training
You’ll have a mix of workplace training and college/tutor support. Colleges generally offer mentoring, assessments, study time, and help with English & maths if needed — which helps you stay on track.
Why choose an apprenticeship with Coastland College?
As an apprentice, you’ll split your time between College and your workplace.
You’ll learn from people who do the job every day, supported by tutors who know how to guide you through your next steps.
At Coastland College, you’re supported from the start. You’ll have tutors, workplace mentors and a team who are always on hand to guide you, encourage you and help you move forward.
We work closely with employers across Dorset in areas such as digital, construction, hospitality, engineering, early years, land-based industries and more – giving you access to a wide range of opportunities.
After finishing an apprenticeship, the majority of our apprentices will stay in employment, many with the same employer.
How to get started
Apply now and let us help you with your employer.
Strong local employer partnerships
We work closely with local organisations and employers to create strong partnerships that give students valuable opportunities and clear pathways into apprenticeships and careers.
Celebrating National Apprenticeship Week 2026
This year we celebrated National Apprenticeship Week and the incredible impact apprenticeships have on individuals, employers and our community. From hands-on skills to career progression, apprenticeships and awards, apprenticeships truly build skills for life. Take a look at the videos below from two of our employers.
Meet Scott & Ethan from NFU Mutual
For National Apprenticeship Week we interviewed employers and apprentices.
Meet Sam & Liama from Weldmar Hopsice
For National Apprenticeship Week we interviewed employers and apprentices.
5 Steps to Securing an Apprenticeship
Apply for an apprenticeship and research entry requirements
Create and distribute a CV to local businesses
Refer to apprenticeship vacancies on the college website or on the government website
Attend a formal interview, securing an apprenticeship placement with an employer
Start your apprenticeship!