Higher Level Apprenticeships (HLAs)

What is an HLA?

An HLA is a route to a Level 4/5 qualification for new employees or for existing employees who are upskilling/entering a new job role.

  • Main qualification is a foundation degree or Level 4/5 Diploma, achieved over two years (three years for Mechatronics, Culinary Arts, Hospitality Management, Digital Engineering for Modern Manufacturing and Computing)
  • It is an employment contract, working 4 days per week with your employer and studying in college 1 day per week
  • You are paid for the full five days – including your day at college
  • Entry requirements vary, but generally include GCSE Maths & English at grade C or above and A Levels or a Level 3 Certificate/Diploma

Browse our range of Higher Level Apprenticeships

Contact Us

Andrea Foster
Advanced Technician Mechanical and Manufacturing, Mechatronics, Digital Engineering for Modern Manufacturing and Computing
andreafoster@serc.ac.uk

David Gore
Health and Social Care, Childcare (Management), Cyber Security, Cloud Computing
E: dgore@serc.ac.uk
M: 07500947724

Natasha Lennox
Accountancy, Culinary Arts Management, Hospitality Management, Construction Managements
E: nlennox@serc.ac.uk
M: 07971303412

Eligibility

Exact entry requirements will depend on the apprenticeship pathway.

As a minimum requirement, you must:

  • be employed, or be about to take up paid employment as an apprentice, or be an existing employee moving to a new job role, with a Northern Ireland based company
  • work a minimum of 21 hours per week (which includes time for ‘off-the-job’ training)
  • have achieved all necessary entry qualifications determined by the relevant sector
  • pass any entry tests specified by the relevant sector
  • be the minimum school leaving age in Northern Ireland

You may need to meet other eligibility considerations, for example you may not be eligible if you're a non-EU national, a public sector worker or already have a recognised vocational qualification.

Finding an Employer

  • Contact employers directly by email, telephone or call in with your CV
  • Contact your local College – email us for support at any time in the year!
  • Look for vacancies online (employer websites or job search website such as Job Centre Online)
  • Have you previously done a school work placement? Contact them if aligned with your chosen industry
  • Contact SERC’s career service for free advice, CV support and interview skills at careers@serc.ac.uk

Benefits of an HLA

  1. Earn while you learn You will receive at least minimum wage for the duration of your apprenticeship, including college day!
  2. Experienced mentor Work with and learn from professionals with years of experience in your chosen industry.
  3. Just one day per week in college Complete your HLA (Foundation Degree or Diploma) with just one day or evening per week in college over two or three years.
  4. No fees = no student loans Your course will be fully funded by the Department for the Economy which means no student debt!
  5. Fantastic career opportunities You have a job from day one, which opens many opportunities for progression/promotion within your company.
Group of students working with electrics