A job in the industry you want to work in, a realistic wage, plus training and qualifications - it may sound too good to be true but it's happening right now all over Scotland.

Who can apply?

Modern Apprenticeships are open to anyone over 16. They're one way of gaining skills and qualifications without having to study full-time, to help start a career.

What will I do?

All Modern Apprenticeships are developed by the industry or sector in which they will be used, and give you all the skills you require to become a craftsman, technician or manager.

As a Modern Apprentice you'll be employed form the very start of your training and receive a wage.

You'll be given the chance to develop expertise and knowledge through on-the-job assessment, as well as gaining vital skills such as team work and problem solving.

Many Modern Apprentices also attend colleges or training centres to study the theory relating to their chosen occupation.

To make sure you get the right combination of theory and practice, a Training Agreement will be drawn up that is unique to you.

With the right combination of theory and practice your career will be on track and you will gain a nationally recognised, high level qualification - a SVQ at Level 2 or above.

Usually the programme lasts for around two to four years, although a Modern Apprenticeship can be for 1 year only.

More help and information

If you think a Modern Apprenticeship could be the right choice for you and are still at school, find out more information by speaking to your school careers advisor or guidance teacher.

If you have left school then visit the Skills Development Scotland website for information and to locate a local centre. They can explain more about it, and help put you in touch with the right people.

To search for Modern Apprenticeship opportunities across various job sectors, ranging from construction and care to IT  visit Apprenticeships in Scotland. Check out the video below for more details on the site and how it was set-up by 2 Modern Apprentices!

Follow the link to listen to an interview with Thomas Davidson, who won Modern Apprenmtice of the year in 2010 and completed a 1 year MA.