NI Apprenticeship Week 2025 runs from 3 to 7 February and spotlights career pathways in Northern Ireland’s healthcare sector. Led by the Department for the Economy, this year’s theme—“Getting it Right for You”—focuses on flexible apprenticeships tailored to individual goals. 

Connected Health supports this initiative by offering Level 2 and 3 apprenticeships in Health and Social Care, available to staff aged 18+ with a minimum 6-month employment commitment.

With over 13,000 apprentices training across NI, apprenticeships combine paid work with qualifications in roles like healthcare assistance and IT support. This article explains how Connected Health’s 2025 apprenticeship opportunities align with NI’s workforce needs, eligibility criteria, and application steps.

What is NI Apprenticeship Week 2025?

NI Apprenticeship Week 2025 runs from 3–7 February, organised by the Department for the Economy to promote vocational training across Northern Ireland. The 2025 theme, “Getting it Right for You,” underscores flexible apprenticeship pathways tailored to individual career goals and sector needs.

This annual initiative partners with employers, colleges, and councils to showcase healthcare, IT, hospitality, and construction opportunities. For example, Connected Health hosts events highlighting Level 2 and 3 health and social care apprenticeships. With nearly 13,000 apprentices training in NI, the week reinforces apprenticeships as a proven route to paid, skills-focused careers.

Level 2 vs Level 3 Apprenticeships: Key Differences

Northern Ireland’s Health and Social Care Apprenticeship Scheme offers structured pathways for career growth. Here’s how Level 2 and Level 3 apprenticeships differ:

Level 2 Apprenticeship:

  • Entry Requirements: No formal qualifications are needed. The position is open to staff aged 18+ who work 21+ hours/week in NI.
  • Focus: Foundational skills for roles like Healthcare Assistant or Admin Support.
  • Essential Skills: Achieve Level 1 qualifications in numeracy, communication, and ICT (You will be required to give copies or statements of grades).

Level 3 Apprenticeship:

  • Entry Requirements: Level 2 completion or equivalent work experience is required.
  • Focus: Advanced training for roles like Senior Care Worker or IT Support Specialist.
  • Essential Skills: Achieve Level 2 qualifications in numeracy, communication, and ICT.

Benefits of Apprenticeships NI:

  • Earn salaries while gaining qualifications.
  • Progress from Level 2 to Level 3 without debt.
  • Aligns with Northern Ireland Social Council standards for career recognition.

Connected Health’s 2025 Apprenticeship Opportunities 

Connected Health will offer Level 2 and 3 apprenticeships in 2025, offering exclusive apprenticeship opportunities in the Health and Social Care sector. These roles are open to Northern Ireland staff aged 16+ employed for at least 21 hours weekly under a permanent contract for 6 months.

Level 2 Apprenticeships:

  • Roles: Healthcare Assistants, Administrative Support.
  • Requirements: No formal qualifications needed.
  • Training: Earn Essential Skills Level 1 in numeracy, communication, and ICT.

Level 3 Apprenticeships:

  • Roles: Senior Care Workers, IT Support Specialists.
  • Requirements: Level 2 completion or equivalent experience.
  • Training: Achieve Essential Skills Level 2 and NISCC-aligned certifications.

All apprentices commit to a minimum six-month employment period. Over 80% of Connected Health apprentices transition to permanent roles after the program. 

Eligibility Criteria: Age, Employment, and Essential Skills

Connected Health’s Health and Social Care Apprenticeship Scheme (NI only) sets precise requirements:

  • Location: Exclusive to Northern Ireland staff.
  • Programme Levels: Offers Level 2 and 3 apprenticeships.
  • Age: Open to all staff aged 18+ (all-age programme).
  • Employment: Must work 21+ hours weekly under a permanent contract.
  • Commitment: Minimum 6-month employment period with Connected Health.

Essential Skills:

  • Level 2: Achieve Level 1 qualifications in numeracy, communication, and ICT.
  • Level 3: Attain Level 2 qualifications in these areas.

NI Apprenticeship Week 2025: Jumpstart Your Career

NI Apprenticeship Week 2025 (3–7 February) features sector-specific showcases across Northern Ireland, including healthcare, IT, and hospitality. Events include:

  • Open days at Southern Regional College’s Banbridge Campus.
  • Employer panels with Connected Health and NHS partners.
  • Hands-on workshops for Health and Social Care roles.

National Apprenticeship Week 2025 events run across three Northern Regional College campuses: 

  • Northern Regional College, Coleraine Campus Union Street, Coleraine, County Londonderry
  • Northern Regional College, Ballymena Campus, Farm Lodge Buildings, County Antrim.
  • Northern Regional College, Trostan Avenue Building Trostan Avenue, Ballymena, County Antrim.