Advanced apprenticeships (Level 3)

Advanced apprenticeships are also called Level 3 apprenticeships and are the equivalent of studying for academic A-Levels.

Some people who already have Level 3 qualifications, including A Levels, choose the advanced apprenticeship route because it enables them to develop work-based skills and gain experience in a particular job and sector.

Find all the apprenticeship levels we offer here.

Advanced apprenticeships are aimed at school leavers and those who might want to change careers or develop the one they already have. To be offered an apprenticeship at the AMRC Training Centre you must have GCSE level qualifications or equivalent.

The current minimum wage rate for an apprentice is £6.40 per hour - raising to £7.55 in April 2025. This rate applies to apprentices under 19 years and those aged 19 or over who are in their first year. Many of our employers offer more than this.

Apprentices who are looking to upskill and are already employed in the industry would normally remain on their current salary when they start an apprenticeship.

Apprentices receive impressive salary increases as they progress through their apprenticeship journey and become skilled. On average a graduate advanced apprentice can expect a 16% boost to their earnings.

The AMRC Training Centre’s apprenticeships typically run for three years.

You will spend a minimum of 16 to 38 weeks at the start of your apprenticeship programme at the AMRC Training Centre; depending on the apprenticeship pathway you select and the skills your employer would like you to develop before returning to them.

We deliver several advanced apprenticeship standards at the training centre. Depending on the requirements of the company, we offer different courses to ensure that our apprentices receive the right skills for their roles.

• Machining technician apprenticeship
• Metal fabricator apprenticeship
• Mechatronics Maintenance Technician
• Engineering and manufacturing support technician

You will need both of the following:

• GCSE English language - grade C or 4 or above or equivalent qualification.
• GCSE Maths - grade C or 4 or above or equivalent qualification.

Applicants are also required to successfully complete a series of assessments at the University of Sheffield’s AMRC Training Centre, as well as an employer recruitment and selection process to secure a place on an apprenticeship programme.

Eligibility requirements - ID and Residency Eligibility

UK Nationals and Irish Citizens

One of the following:

• UK  or Irish passport, proving you have the legal right of abode in the UK
• Birth certificate 

If your name is different from the name you are using on your passport or birth certificate, you must provide your deed poll documentation

EU/EEA/Swiss nationals (EUSS) and Other Non-UK nationals:

One of the following: 

• A valid non-UK passport
• A non-UK birth certificate

If your name is different from the name you are using on your passport or birth certificate, you must provide your with deed poll documentation.

You will also need: 

• Share code - obtainable from the Home Office online service to prove your immigration status and right to undertake an apprenticeship in the UK 
• 3-year continuous residence evidence up to the start date of your apprenticeship

Visa Duration - Visa status must remain valid for the entire duration of the apprenticeship, including the End-point assessment (EPA)

At the AMRC Training Centre our aim is to match you with the right job and employer. Once you have decided on which apprenticeship is for you and you meet the entry requirements, the next step is to apply. We require everyone that applies to complete an assessment centre.

Find out more about our application process.