To get your career started you usually need a combination of experience and qualifications. An Apprenticeship gives you both by combining on-the-job training with study (usually one day a week) meaning you can earn while you learn. With more and more Apprenticeships now being offered at Degree Level you can now gain a university-level qualification via an Apprenticeship route. No debt as your tuition fees are paid by your employer or the Government, you gain great hands-on experience and you are earning whilst you are learning!
Apprenticeships are available from Level 2 (equivalent to GCSE) all the way through to Level 7 (Degree-Level). It usually takes between one and four years to complete an Apprenticeship depending on which level you take. Apprenticeships are available across a wide range of industries and many high-quality, prestigious companies and organisations offer them.
The current minimum wage rate for an apprentice can be found here but many employers pay more than this. Apprentices going into their second year of study will earn more, with different rates for those aged over 21 and those aged under 18.
However, depending on the sector, region and Apprenticeship level, some higher Apprenticeships pay up to £500 per week. More details on salaries and entry criteria in specific Apprenticeship occupations can be found here.
To apply, click here. You will need to create a user account, then you can search and apply online using the relevant ‘search’ selections. At any one time, there are up to 28,000 Apprenticeship vacancies available online in a variety of careers and industries across England.
You can view the latest vacancies on our interactive maps.
‘I got to work with experienced staff, take part in events, learn new things, and complete a qualification at the same time as having the best time.’
Available to individuals aged 16+ apprentices are typically employed for at least 30 hours per week.
All apprentices will earn a salary of at least the National Minimum Wage for apprentices.
Most apprenticeships take between 1 – 4 years to complete.
They start at levels equivalent to GCSEs right up to master’s level and degree level.
All costs are paid for by the employer and/or the government meaning that an apprentice will never have to pay.
The equivalent of 6 hours per week of an apprentice’s paid time will be spent off-the-job learning.
Most of an apprentice’s paid time will be spent on-the-job, working with colleagues to learn skills and gain experience.
New apprenticeships are advertised each week covering a wide range of job roles, thousands in more than 170 industries.
Whether you have a diagnosed learning or mental health need or are unsure of the reasons behind your challenges, there are a number of support options available through UCAS for neurodiverse applicants and apprentices.
Both neurotypical and neurodiverse ways of thinking are increasingly valued as essential for driving productivity, creativity, and innovation.
Eligibility criteria for apprenticeships vary, but generally, individuals must be 16 or older and not in full-time education. Specific entry requirements may depend on the industry and level of the apprenticeship. While some apprenticeships may require certain qualifications, others may focus more on aptitude and enthusiasm for the chosen field.
The duration of apprenticeships can vary based on factors such as the level of the apprenticeship and the industry. Apprenticeships in the UK usually last between one to six years. Higher-level apprenticeships or those in specialized sectors may have longer durations. The time is divided between practical, on-the-job training and academic learning.
Apprenticeships lead to a range of qualifications, including National Vocational Qualifications (NVQs), BTECs, and industry-recognized certifications. The specific qualifications depend on the apprenticeship standard or framework. Additionally, apprentices often acquire valuable practical skills and experience that enhance their employability within the chosen industry.
A Levels:
T Levels:
