Apprenticeships at Selco offer apprentices the opportunity to earn while learn, gaining a recognised qualification in retail or trade supply. We compare the Selco apprenticeship to the typical entry level job below, outlining what happens on an apprenticeship from start to finish.
What the day to day work involves
The work is highly practical, and you will be working within the trade counter on the yard, serving customers and dealing with trade customers. You will also be involved in picking and checking stock as it comes in and loading it onto vehicles. You will also learn about pricing and the different product ranges that Selco holds. In addition to the practical work, the time spent on the apprenticeship program is also used to complete coursework and other assignments. These are usually completed in sessions with a tutor, and the time spent on these sessions can vary from a day a week to a block of time each month depending on the provider.
Age and entry requirements
Apprenticeships typically start at 16 years old, however most applicants are slightly older and have either just finished college or tried out another job for a while. There are no university entry requirements for a Selco retail trade supply chain apprenticeship, although you will typically require basic GCSE’s in English and Maths, or be willing to study for these whilst on the program. Above all an interest in trade, building materials and customer service is far more important.
How the study side works
As the employer, Selco does not decide the structure and assessment criteria for the Apprenticeship, this is all set within national standards. More information is available on apprenticeship standards and how they are assessed.
Typical length and progress reviews
Apprenticeships can last anywhere between 12-18 months depending on the size and level of the Apprenticeship as well as how quickly the apprentice picks up the necessary skills to complete the Apprenticeship. Regular review meetings take place every few months with the Apprenticeship Holder, their line manager and training provider to review progress, discuss any difficulties the apprentice is having with specific modules and consider whether the apprentice is ready to take on more responsibility within the shop.
Pay during the apprenticeship
Apprentices are paid the apprentice minimum wage rate set by the government for the first year of your apprenticeship, after which you will move to the adult minimum wage for your age group. You must check current rate and ask your interviewer where you would be placed in respect of your current age and prior experience.
Support and mentoring you can expect
The apprentice will be assigned an experienced team member to work alongside and receive guidance and support as required. This is not formal mentoring and would be more ad-hoc, as the apprentice would be able to ask questions at the point of need, for example processing a return or dealing with a tricky delivery query. The apprentice will also have regular one-to-ones with their manager to discuss their progress and any concerns.
What happens when the apprenticeship ends
As you complete your apprenticeship, your end point assessment or portfolio will be assessed by an independent assessor. All being well, you will move on to a permanent, full-time role at the branch where you have been studying. In many cases, this will be at a higher grade and with an increased salary. Not all apprentices progress in this way but it is the most common route for those that complete the scheme successfully.
Finding and applying for current vacancies
The listings for Selco Jobs are constantly updated so check back regularly for new apprenticeship opportunities.
There is more on Selco Jobs at BM Careers.
The potential of an apprenticeship may not appeal to everyone but it is a fantastic way to get a job, learn new skills and earn money whilst studying for a qualification all without any student debt.
