Frequently asked questions

We offer a paid Level 2 or Level 3 apprenticeship opportunity that combines practical work experience with structured training, leading to a nationally recognised qualification.

We provide a structured three-year higher apprentice Trainee programme that gives you the foundations you need to build your career. You will receive a bespoke development plan, industry-recognised qualifications and mentoring and support throughout. You will study for a Level 4 apprenticeship first, before having the opportunity to progress onto a degree apprenticeship and then a chartership.

Once you’ve completed your three-year programme, you will progress into the next stage of your career at the assistant manager level.

A structured two-year graduate Trainee programme which will enable you to build the foundations you need to progress in your career.

This program aims to provide graduates with hands-on experience, training, and development opportunities to kickstart their professional careers. You will follow a bespoke qualification pathway, which may include a Level 4 apprenticeship, before progressing onto chartership.

After successfully completing the two-year programme, you’ll move into the next stage of your career in an assistant manager level role.

Apprenticeships range from Level 2 (equivalent to GCSEs) to Level 4 and Level 6 (degree level). The level you apply for depends on your current qualifications, experience level, career goals and interests.

Depending on the entry route into the scheme and existing qualifications, we will support you to gain the industry-recognised qualifications that you need to succeed. This could include a Level 2, Level 4 or Level 6 qualification in the relevant discipline, and potentially a chartership with the relevant professional body.

These qualifications are designed to meet industry standards and best practice.

Entry requirements vary by programme level:

• Level 2 Apprenticeships: requires a grade 4 (C) or above in Maths and English.

• Level 3 Apprenticeships: requires a grade 4 (C) or above in Maths and English.

• Trainee Apprentice route: requires two A-levels grade D and above or equivalent qualifications, or a Level 3 qualification (e.g. T Level, BTEC).

• Trainee Graduate route: a 2:2 Bachelor’s degree. Sometimes we ask for this to be in an industry-related subject.

You will receive:

• Regular reviews: Assessments to monitor progress and development.

• On-the-job training: Learning from experienced colleagues.

• Off-the-job training: Structured learning sessions, which may include college attendance or online modules.

• Mentorship: Guidance from a workplace mentor or supervisor.

You are required to demonstrate the correct company behaviours and values throughout each stage of the recruitment process.

As part of the application form, you will need to provide us with information about you, including your personal details, right to work status and educational qualifications.

• Stage 1: Complete and submit a competency test and motivational application questions

• Stage 2: Should you be shortlisted, you will be invited to a face-to-face interview or a remote interview

• Stage 3: Offer

• Stage 1: Complete and submit an application form, along with situational judgment questions

• Stage 2: Should you be shortlisted, you will be invited to complete an online video interview

• Stage 3: Successful candidates will be invited to attend an online assessment centre

• Stage 4: Offer

Depending on the pathway chosen, you can be on the level 2/3 Apprenticeship for 18 – 24 months for Business Support roles and 32 – 54 months for Trade roles.

You may be required to attend college either on a day release where you attend a local college or training provider once a week or a month. Alternatively, the training provider may visit you at your place of work.

On the other hand, you may be required to attend college on a block release basis, which is a residential element where you will be at college for two weeks straight and then return to work.

You will be on the Trainee programme for either two or three years, depending on their entry route with us. 

During this time, there will be a strong focus on technical and behavioural development, because we want our Trainees to feel confident and competent in their roles. You will be provided with the knowledge, tools and guidance needed to excel. 

Not only this, but for Wates, we believe behaviours and values are equally as important as the technical knowledge.

You will take part in fun and engaging behavioural workshops throughout the programme as well, to align your behaviour to the professional standards here at Wates.

Applications are submitted through the Early Careers page.

You can join our talent community and register your interest to be the first to know when we are live with vacancies. Applications for all our programmes only happen once a year (October for our Trainee Management Programme and February for our Level 2/3 Apprenticeship programme), so make sure you keep an eye out for our vacancies.

If you require any reasonable adjustments or accommodations during the recruitment process, please let us know as soon as possible.

You can contact us using the email address received as part of your application to discuss your needs confidentially. We are committed to making the process accessible and will work with you to ensure you have the necessary support.

Find out more about the recruitment process here.