JUMP TO CONTENT

Open and close mobile menu

back

Apprenticeships selection process

Apprenticeship applications start here

Are you interested in one of our apprenticeships in the UK? To find out if we’re right for each other, we’ve designed a process that’s easy to follow and will help you show us your best. 

We want you to perform at your best at each stage of our recruitment process and can make adjustments to ensure this. So, whether you consider yourself to have a disability or not, or would simply like to know how we can support you better, please contact us confidentially at apprenticeships@atkinsrealis.com or visit our FAQs page for further information.

Our selection process is designed to help us select the best people for our apprenticeship schemes and we hope it offers you the opportunity to showcase your talents and really shine.

The information below will explain the typical route we anticipate our applicants to go through, letting you know what to expect, at what time and what we require of you.

A few things to think about before you apply for an apprenticeship:

The apprenticeship

Apprenticeship interview

The apprenticeship

Finding the right apprenticeship

Firstly you’ll need to choose from four levels of apprenticeships which one might suit you best:

The Advanced level is the equivalent to 2 A-Level passes and to be eligible you’ll need to have acquired at least 5 passes at GCSE or equivalent. An Advanced apprenticeship involves working towards work-based learning qualifications such as an NVQ and knowledge-based qualifications (such as BTEC Diplomas, Awards and Nationals) relevant to the sector worked in.

The Level 4, Higher apprenticeship is the equivalent to a higher education certificate or diploma and a higher Level 5 is equivalent to a foundation degree. To be eligible you will typically be required to have studied to A-Level or equivalent standard. The apprenticeship will involve work-based learning towards qualifications such as NVQs, BTECs and Foundation degrees relevant to the sector worked in.

The Degree apprenticeship is the equivalent to a bachelor's degree. To be eligible you’ll typically be required to have studied to A-Level or equivalent standard. Degree apprenticeships bring together the best of higher and vocational training and offers university study as well as the invaluable on-the-job training relevant to the sector worked in.

A Level 7 is a Masters equivalent apprenticeship, to apply for a Level 7 apprenticeship you would typically need to have an undergraduate degree or equivalent. An ideal apprentice would be an ambitious and self-motivated graduate with an upper second class or higher award.

The Level 7 apprenticeship also provides a route towards the knowledge, experience and competence required to apply for recognition by various charterships such as; INCOSE as a Certified Systems Engineering Professional (CSEP) and to apply to be registered by the Engineering Council as a Chartered Engineer (CEng). These apprenticeships are not always available but will be advertised when we’re able to offer them.

You will want to be aware that depending on the Level of apprenticeship you choose to apply for and the location, this will link to a specific learning provider who will have their own set of entry requirements so please check each role and the entry requirements careful. They also can and will change between the time of our roles going live and being offered a role so will be subject to change. We’ll do our best to keep you updated as we go through the cycle and you progress through the recruitment process.

The apprenticeship application process

Watch the full run-down of our application process - from applying to interview - in the video below. It also includes tips and advice. Or jump straight to the particular stage you're interested in the menu below.

Apprenticeships: Top tips for a successful application to AtkinsRéalis

team sitting around lunch table

Apprenticeships: Top tips for a successful application to AtkinsRéalis

Step 1 – Start your application

Browse the information across our careers site and utilise the chatbot facility to help guide you to the most relevant roles. Once you’ve selected your preferred region and role, we’ll ask you for some more information about you, your educational background and core modules. As we don’t ask for CV's it’s important that you take your time and ensure all the information you want captured is conveyed in this section.

Our online Immersive Assessment takes a ‘day in the life of’ approach where we’ve blended a few assessments to make it easier for you and to give you a feel for what it might be like to work for us.

This is a key part of the selection process so it’s really important that you focus on your answers and take it seriously, as the outcome will determine whether you progress to the next stage of the process. You’ll only have one opportunity to do it - so take your computer somewhere quiet, go through the introduction guidelines and listen to the advice that gives you a feel of what to expect.

The test will take you approximately 45 minutes to complete and will consist of several situational judgement questions and questions focused on numerical and verbal reasoning. It concludes with three questions which require short, videoed answers (you’ll get a chance to practice these). This further assesses your alignment to our roles and the company. Please note this test is not timed so you can do it at your own pace - the above is an approximate guideline to how long it might take.

What you’ll need:

  • Camera - You'll need one to record your responses. You can use a computer, phone or tablet. If you do not have access to these devices please consider utilising your local library, school or university facilities.
  • Environment - We would recommend you find a quiet space without any distractions. It’s also a good idea to check you have a good WI-FI signal and internet connection.

Supporting you

As we’re committed to equality diversity and inclusion, we’re also committed to making sure you perform at your best at every stage so if you think you might need adjustments we’re here to help. If you require any adjustments before taking any of our online tests and you wish to discuss this, please contact us at  graduates@atkinsrealis.com.

Use of generative AI

We acknowledge the advancement of generative AI and the opportunities it brings to our daily lives and you can use these tools, should you wish to, to prepare for your interview. However these tools must not be used during the assessment and interview process, as we want to hear your authentic ideas which are more valuable to us than perfectly crafted responses. Instead rely on your own knowledge, experiences and thoughts when responding to questions. Integrity is one of our core values and we ask you to demonstrate your integrity during the process.



The virtual Interview will be an opportunity to spend time with the business and find out more about the role and team you could be joining. This is a great opportunity for you to learn more about the culture at AtkinsRéalis and we’ll find out more about you and your suitability for the role.

We’ll let you know as soon as possible afterwards if you’ve been successful in securing a position.

Please do get in touch if you require any adjustments when you confirm attendance.

What you’ll need:

  • Camera - You'll need one to record your responses. You can use a computer, phone or tablet. If you do not have access to these devices please consider utilising your local library, school or university facilities.
  • Environment - We would recommend you find a quiet space without any distractions. It’s also a good idea to check you have a good WI-FI signal and internet connection.

Use of generative AI

We acknowledge the advancement of generative AI and the opportunities it brings to our daily lives and you can use these tools, should you wish to, to prepare for your interview. However these tools must not be used during the assessment and interview process, as we want to hear your authentic ideas which are more valuable to us than perfectly crafted responses. Instead rely on your own knowledge, experiences and thoughts when responding to questions. Integrity is one of our core values and we ask you to demonstrate your integrity during the process.



If you’ve been successful, an offer will be made to you verbally, then shortly after you’ll receive a full contract outlining the details of your offer including the college or university that will support your learning throughout the apprenticeship.

team sitting around lunch table

Connectr

Our Connectr platform is designed to help you through your application process by connecting you with mentors, and early careers champions, and giving you insights into what life is really like at AtkinsRéalis. 

Just register on Connectr, and once you're in, explore our career guidance, tips and insights on all things AtkinsRéalis. Choose a mentor from some of our early career staff and ask anything you like about life at our leading global consultancy.

Connectr

Hints and tips for your apprenticeship application

  1. Do your research: on our apprentice programme and the industry you’re applying to. Make sure you meet the minimum criteria detailed on our job descriptions and that you only apply to one role. 


  2. Focus your application: tailor the information you provide in the application and immersive assessment to the role you have chosen. Make sure your passion comes across and why an apprenticeship is the right path for you.


  3. Take your time: it’s obvious but don’t rush it, take your time at each step


  4. Check, check and check again: revisit your application before you submit it to make sure there are no errors and that you’ve added everything that’s required.