FAQs

Will I have to go away to college?

We currently deal with around 16 different colleges. Only if the course cannot be offered at UHI Shetland you will  need to attend college outwith Shetland. We will pay for you to travel to the mainland and for the cost of your lodgings.

One of our training co-ordinators will always be available to you to offer guidance and advice.

Who pays for the training?

The direct costs of training are fully funded, in most cases, by Skills Development Scotland.

Additional support towards the cost of travel and lodgings may also be available if you have to attend college as part of your training programme.

How much will I get paid?

As a Modern Apprentice, you will be paid the going rate for the job. The rate you receive will depend on your employer. Skills Development Scotland recommends the National Minimum Wage rates and Youth Rates which are revised in October each year. The rates are published at the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills (BIS) on the government website.

What the are benefits of becoming a Modern Apprentice?

Vocational qualifications and training are recognised as being essential to business success. This route is a good career choice and gives you the skills you need in the workplace.

Vocational qualifications are specifically designed to bring maximum benefits to you and your employer, and include:

• A nationally recognised qualification
• Practical and relevant job training
• The skills and experience needed to do the job
• Improved career prospects

How does studying work?

While the majority of training requirements can be met in the workplace, this is often supported by college study – either on a day or block release basis, or by distance or e-learning.

How do I apply?

We accept applications at any time of year; however some college courses have set intakes in August or September. 

You can also approach potential employers yourself in the first instance to see if they would be interested in taking you on. Trial periods are increasingly popular for employers and potential apprentices so you can ask employers about this directly before committing to the apprenticeship.

Contact UHI Shetland Train Shetland and learn about how you can progress your career as a Modern Apprentice.

There are several ways you can contact us:

• Complete our Contact Form located here - 
• Email apprenticeships.shetland@uhi.ac.uk
• Call us on 01595 771210
• Visit us at our UHI Shetland Train Shetland office our address is - John Goodlad Centre, Port Arthur, Scalloway, ZE1 0UN.

We look forward to hearing from you.

Is there an upper age limit on Apprenticeships?

Yes. Skills Development Scotland issues the government funding to pay for apprenticeship training. Each year they update their targets and programme rules. The main target group is 16 – 19 year olds; however they do occasionally offer funding to apprentices over 20 years of age. Please contact us directly and we will be able to give you the current, up-to-date funding information.