Apprenticeship glossary

Strengths-based interview

What does Strengths-based interview mean?

An interview that focuses on what you enjoy and are naturally good at, rather than what you've done before. There are no wrong answers, so be honest.

Student loan (Plan 5)
The loan system for new university students in England. You repay 9% of your income over £25,000 a year, and anything left is written off after 40 years. Apprentices don't need one, because they don't pay tuition fees.
Supply chain
Everything involved in getting products from suppliers to customers, from buying materials to delivery.
T Level
A two-year course in England, roughly equivalent to three A levels, that mixes classroom study with an industry placement. Some employers accept T Levels for their higher-level apprenticeships.
Talent pool
A list you can join to hear when an employer opens applications. Barclays, for example, lets you sign up to its talent pool.
Technician
A skilled practical role that keeps equipment, systems or processes working. Many Level 3 engineering apprenticeships train technicians.
Telephone interview
An early-stage interview by phone, usually short, to check your interest and basic suitability before later stages.

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.