So let's start with what is an apprenticeship?
You will be employed and you will undertake a qualification whilst you are working. You do not have to pay for that qualification.  You get paid by your employer* and are entitled to the same benefits as other staff e.g. holidays.
Apprenticeships are practical and based on evidencing your skills and knowledge and applying it in the workplace.  For example, bricklaying - you have to physically get stuck in and lay bricks in order to demonstrate that you can meet the required level of proficiency.
The level of your qualification can vary from Level 2 (Intermediate) up to Level 7 (post-graduate degree).  To understand levels, look at the picture below.  
If you finish Year 11 with grades 9-4, you have achieved Level 2 already, so would ideally be seeking a Level 3, (Advanced) apprenticeship.  However, some people chose to look for Level 2 to get a good grounding and understanding of the basics, as often they are starting a discipline they haven't learned at school before (like mechanics, hairdressing, beauty therapy, plastering).
20% of your job should be 'off-the-job' learning, which equates to one day a week.
*There is a different minimum wage for apprentices and information about that is included here too.

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