Christmas Closure Information

Our campuses close on Friday 20th December and re-open on Thursday 2nd January 2025 for the Christmas Break.

Students will return to timetabled lessons on Monday 6th January 2025.

For information on term dates and enquiries please visit our information page using the button below.

Not in Education?

If you are interested in an apprenticeship but don’t have an employer then there are a number of options you can pursue.

What are my options?

Option 1 – We support you to find an apprenticeship

All you have to do is complete and submit our Talent Pool application form, attend a pre-screening assessment/interview and be available when contacted. We will then send your details along with your profile to employers looking for an apprentice, inform you if you are selected and send you guidance to prepare you for interview.

Complete our Talent Pool Application Form

If you are unemployed you can also apply for an apprenticeship. If you feel you need to develop your skills in Maths and English, or would like to speak to a careers/employability advisor, please contact our Adult Learning Shops.

Option 2 – You apply for an advertised Apprenticeship Vacancy

Visit our Apprenticeship Vacancies page, which is updated weekly with all of our latest vacancies. Select the subject tab of the apprenticeship area you want to study and then click on the vacancy title. This will direct you through to the apprenticeship section of the government website where you can view the full job description and then ‘sign in to apply’. Your submitted application will then be sent to us directly.

Using the ‘Find an apprenticeship’ website

Visit ‘Find an Apprenticeship‘ on the gov.uk website where you can search by job role, occupation type and location.

Option 3 – You find/have an employer to support you with an Apprenticeship

There is another way to become an apprentice through Colchester Institute and we’re here to assist you every step of the way. In order to enrol onto an apprenticeship scheme you must find an employer willing to appoint you as an apprentice in your chosen field.

Contact us and we will guide you and your employer through the process. We will ensure you are applying for the correct apprenticeship to support your development and your employer’s business needs.

Currently working but want to change to an apprenticeship?

If you are working full-time or part-time, you may want to speak with your current manager and see if they have any opportunities for apprenticeships available, or if they would like to consider developing your skills through an apprenticeship.

Contacting employers direct

You might also wish to take some time to compose a covering letter and create a CV to send to companies in your local area (except those advertising apprenticeship vacancies on the gov.uk website – these have to be applied for via the ‘Find an Apprentice’ service).

Download our ‘How to Find an Apprenticeship’ guide

If you have any questions or would like to speak to one of our Apprentice Recruitment team call: 01206 712043 email: ci.apprenticeships@colchester.ac.uk