When should I open my LinkedIn?

Year 10 — under 18 profiles are allowed with parental consent.

How many applications should I send?

20–40 well-targeted ones beat 100 spray-and-pray.

Sometimes — Queen's College has hired student apprentices before.

Try 2–3 short volunteer or shadowing weeks in Year 10.

Applications · 6 min read

How students in years 10 and 11 should prepare for an apprenticeship in Somerset — timelines, portfolio building and application windows.

By Jack Frampton, Apprentice Advocate working at Queen's College, Taunton · Published 15 July 2026

Preparing for an apprenticeship starts earlier than most students realise. Here's the Year 10 and 11 plan.

One paid or volunteer project. One certification. One LinkedIn profile.

Apply in tranches — 3 per week, tracked.

Interviews and offers land.

When should I open my LinkedIn?: Year 10 — under 18 profiles are allowed with parental consent.
How many applications should I send?: 20–40 well-targeted ones beat 100 spray-and-pray.
Can I apprentice at my own school?: Sometimes — Queen's College has hired student apprentices before.
What if I don't know what sector?: Try 2–3 short volunteer or shadowing weeks in Year 10.