Your Questions about Nationwide Apprenticeships

What does Nationwide look for in its Apprentices?

We’re looking for hard-working and enthusiastic individuals with the determination to learn and progress. To join our Apprentice Programmes, you should have at least 3 GCSEs (or equivalent) with a grade C or above (ideally including Maths and English and, for Vehicle Technician Apprentices, a Science).

When could I start my Apprenticeship and what would my hours of work be?

Your employment with Nationwide is most likely to start in September time (but can start any time throughout the year, January is also popular). You’d be expected to attend work five days a week (Monday to Friday). Hours of work are typically 8.30am to 5.30pm although they do vary between branches.

Would I have access to any other training during my Apprenticeship?

Nationwide will provide you with all of the training and support you require in order to become fully-qualified in your chosen field.

Upon joining the Company, you’ll be assigned a mentor (an experienced member of staff) who will be on hand to help you throughout your Apprenticeship. He or she will help you to get the most out of your training and to progress as quickly as possible on the job.

All of our apprentices attend a three-day outward-bound course called "The Nationwide Apprenticeship Challenge". During the three days, you’ll take part in a range of team-based activities aimed at developing non-technical skills such as your communication and problem-solving skills. The course also aims to improve your overall level of self-confidence. It’s great fun and a fantastic opportunity to meet and share experiences with our other apprentices!

How long would it take me to complete my Apprenticeship?

It typically takes two to three years to complete a Vehicle Technician Apprenticeship and two years to complete a Commercial Business Apprenticeship. Vehicle Technician Apprenticeships in Scotland take up to four years to complete due to the nature of the Scottish qualifications.

What qualifications would I gain during my Apprenticeship?

Apprentices in England and Wales work towards an NVQ Level 3 and Key Skills. Vehicle Technician Apprentices also work towards a Technical Certificate and IMI Accreditation.

Apprentices in Scotland work towards an SVQ Level 3. Vehicle Technician Apprentices also work towards a Technical Certificate and a City & Guilds GOLA.

These qualifications are highly recognised within the industry and will be a great foundation for your chosen career.

Would I be paid during my Apprenticeship?

During their training period, all of our Apprentices receive the national apprentice salary in their first year, which is set by the government. After 12 months, this is increased to the national minimum wage. You’ll receive further information about Nationwide’s pay and benefits if you’re invited for an interview.

Would I be guaranteed a job at the end of my Apprenticeship?

Providing you successfully complete your training and there are suitable vacancies, there will be a job for you at the end of it. The whole point of investing in the apprentice programme is to develop our own talent, so we are keen to keep as many of our apprentices as possible!

What happens once I’ve submitted my application?

You will receive an e-mail confirming that your application has been received. A decision on your application will not be made until the deadline for applications has passed. If you are successful, you’ll be invited to attend an interview.

How many Apprentices does Nationwide recruit each year?

We have over 200 apprentices at Nationwide at anytime. There are approximately 2,500 people working at Nationwide – so our apprentices are a very important part of the team. We are the largest provider of apprenticeship opportunities in our industry sector.

Where are the Apprenticeships based?

We have more than 70 branches located across England, Scotland and Wales. However, you’ll be encouraged to move between branches during your training to widen your experience and improve your career opportunities. This is a great opportunity to find out more about the business, find out if there is an area of the business you are particularly interested in, and meet lots of new people! Find out if there is a job in your area.

Don’t forget to write your choice of location in the space provided on your application form.

Can I choose which field I specialise in?

Yes, of course. We encourage all our applicants to choose their preferred field when applying (although we’ll also need to take into account the needs of the individual branch you’re applying to). If you want a Vehicle Technician Apprentices, we’ve got opportunities in Paint Spraying, Panel Beating or Strip/Fitting. These roles are available in our Mobile Repairs and Motorglass divisions, as well as in our Nationwide Repair Centres. If you’re looking for an office-based role, our Commercial Business Apprentices can specialise in Parts Management, Estimating, Customer Service or Administration.

How does the Nationwide Apprentice Programme work?

There are two main elements to our Apprentice Programmes:

On-the-job training. This is completed in one of our state-of-the-art bodyshops or in one of our state-of-the-art vans where you’ll have the opportunity to learn about the job by observing more experienced members of staff and having a go yourself!

Off-the-job training. All of our Apprentices work towards formal qualifications. For Vehicle Technician Apprentices, this means spending a certain amount of time off-site at specialist training centres. The vast majority of our Vehicle Technician Apprentices attend Thatcham or Glasgow Training Group (GTG). Both have been selected because they offer the very best off-the-job training available. Commercial Apprentices complete their formal qualifications in the workplace through the support of trained and qualified NVQ assessors.

What are the benefits to Nationwide in running an apprenticeship programme?

Nationwide is a progressive, growing organisation. We know that we need young, talented and enthusiastic people joining the team to help us achieve our objectives and to give us fresh ideas and creativity. It is exciting for us and for you!

Find a job now!

For more information, just call our Recruitment Team on 01926 452620 or e-mail your question to recruitment@ncrc.co.uk.