Apprenticeship glossary

Pathway

What does Pathway mean?

A route within an apprenticeship programme, such as a specialism or department. Williams, for example, has four apprenticeship pathways.

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Employer profile Williams F1 Team apprenticeships The Formula 1 team based in Grove, Oxfordshire, racing as Atlassian Williams F1 Team. It runs a three-year apprenticeship for school leavers where you rotate through four areas of the factory.
Metrology
The science of measuring things precisely. In manufacturing, metrology technicians check parts are made exactly to spec, as on Williams' metrology pathway.
Practical test
A hands-on task to show your skills, often for engineering or trade roles. Williams' assessment centre includes a practical skills test.
Rotation
Moving between different teams or departments during your apprenticeship to get wider experience. Williams and Sky both run rotational programmes.
Apprentice
Someone doing an apprenticeship: an employee who is paid to work and train towards a recognised qualification at the same time.
Apprenticeship
A real, paid job where you also train towards a recognised qualification. In England at least 20% of your normal working hours are spent training, and you don't pay tuition fees.
Software engineering
Designing, building and testing software. Many digital degree apprenticeships, like those at BT, JLR and Lidl, include a software pathway.

Definitions are our own plain-English summaries. Where we give figures, they come from the official sources listed on the linked guide or profile. Rules can change, so check the official source before you make decisions.