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Starting an apprenticeship is an exciting step, and we are here to make your apprenticeship enrolment process as straightforward as possible. This guide walks you through each stage, from activating your account to booking your Careers Information, Advice and Guidance (CIAG) call, so you will know exactly what to expect.
Some steps must be completed before you can begin your programme, so it is important to work through each one in order. If you ever need support, your NCE Education Adviser is here to help.
All learners must complete the English and maths initial assessments, even if you already hold GCSE or Functional Skills qualifications. These assessments are mandatory and must be completed before you can progress with your enrolment.
Follow the steps below to begin your apprenticeship journey.
Your first step is to activate your Aptem account using the registration email you have been sent. Once you have activated your account, you will be prompted to create your digital signature.
If you have not received your registration email, please contact your NCE Education Adviser, who will be happy to resend it.
You can access Aptem once you have activated your account by selecting the button below.
As part of the apprenticeship enrolment process, you will need to complete several onboarding tasks before you can begin your programme.
Next, head to the Onboarding section in Aptem and work through the tasks assigned to you.
The first section will ask you to provide your personal information. Please ensure all details are accurate before moving on to the next stage.
As part of your onboarding, you will be asked to complete your initial English and maths assessments, which are located under Step 5 of your onboarding in Aptem. These assessments help us understand your current skills so we can provide the right support throughout your apprenticeship.
All learners must complete the English and maths assessments, even if you already hold GCSE or Functional Skills qualifications. These assessments are mandatory and must be completed before you can progress with your enrolment.
To begin:
Please read each question carefully, using the scroll bar where needed, before selecting Next Question to move through the assessment.
Once you have finished the English assessment, select My Courses at the top of the page and choose Start Functional Skills Maths Initial Assessment.
Take your time and read each question carefully before answering. You may use a calculator during the maths assessment if needed.
Each assessment typically takes around 30–40 minutes, but there is no need to rush. You can take as long as you need to complete them.
Once you have completed both assessments, the next stage of your onboarding is to complete your Skills Radar.
You will be asked a series of questions about the knowledge, skills and behaviours you will develop throughout your apprenticeship. This is not a test, and there are no right or wrong answers. We are simply looking for honest responses so we can understand your starting point and support your development throughout your programme.
Please rate yourself against the questions to indicate your level of knowledge and confidence. We would not expect high scores at this stage, as you are just starting out on your learning journey.
You may notice instructions suggesting this should be completed with your manager. However, you can complete this section independently.
Once you have completed all of your onboarding tasks, please email your NCE Education Adviser to confirm you have finished and provide your availability for your Careers Information, Advice and Guidance (CIAG) call.
We will also arrange a CIAG call with your manager to ensure they understand the apprenticeship programme, what to expect throughout your learning journey and how they can support you during your apprenticeship.
Once you have completed each of these steps, your apprenticeship enrolment process will be complete and we will be able to get you ready to begin your apprenticeship with National College of Education (NCE).
If you are unsure about any stage, need help accessing Aptem or have any questions about your onboarding, do not worry. Your NCE Education Adviser is here to support you every step of the way.
We cannot wait to welcome you onto your programme and help you build the knowledge, skills and confidence to succeed in your career.
Ready to take the next step?
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