What is an apprenticeship?

An apprenticeship will allow you to earn a salary, whilst gaining a nationally recognised qualification. The training you’ll receive will be practical and directly relate to the career pathway you are interested in. An apprentice will have a contract of employment that details the same benefits as any other employee, such as paid holidays and sick pay.

There are apprenticeships available at all levels, from entry-level (Level 2) up to Masters Degree equivalent (Level 7). The level of apprenticeship you start will depend on your experience and qualifications. Anyone over the age of 16 can apply for an apprenticeship.

Research from the National Apprenticeship Service (NAS) shows that 90% of apprentices go on to secure a full-time role with the employer they do their apprenticeship with.

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Benefits of doing an Apprenticeship

Earn money as you learn

One of the primary benefits of an apprenticeship is that you earn a wage while also learning. Though the money tends to be minimal at first, wages can increase very quickly as you become more knowledgeable, proficient, and experienced. Many employers pay higher than the National Minimum Wage for apprentices because they can see the added value that apprentices bring to their business.

Gain a nationally recognised qualification

Apprenticeships allow you to gain tangible work experience, but they also enable you to gain valuable qualifications that will help you to advance in your career. These qualifications will benefit you when you are applying for jobs further down the line, progressing into new roles, or moving up within your company.

Get qualified for a particular role

Some apprenticeships have the added bonus that they also give you professional accreditation. Some jobs require you to have specific accreditation and qualifications which an apprenticeship can help you achieve.

Gain hands-on experience

Apprenticeships allow you to gain real-world work experience. You will be doing the job you want, in a career you want at the same time as learning and earning a wage. Your colleagues will be able to show you the ropes of everyday working life so that you’ll soon fit right in!

Improve your employability

In today’s working world, many employers require a minimum level of experience when they are looking to hire new talent. An apprenticeship allows you to demonstrate your experience to future employers.

Benefit from bespoke support

An apprenticeship will offer you a much higher level of support than a regular job. Your employer will be there to help guide you through your career journey and our Personal Tutors all have first-hand industry experience and will give you the support you need to progress.

Am I eligible for an apprenticeship?

There are a number of entry requirements to consider when applying for an apprenticeship in England. You must be:

  • 16 or over
  • Living in England and have the right to work in the UK
  • Not currently in full-time education

You can apply for and start an apprenticeship whether you’re just starting off your career, fancy a change of industry or role or you are looking to upskill and progress in your current job. You can have a previous qualification like a university degree and still do an apprenticeship as long as it is in a different topic.

Looking to get started?

There are apprenticeships available for thousands of different jobs in a range of industries. From something hands-on like childcare, nursing, or working in the care sector, to a career in accountancy, customer service or sales, to name a few.

With an apprenticeship, most of your learning is through on-the-job training and you’ll work towards a qualification at the same time. You get paid a salary just like a normal employee, and you get dedicated study time throughout the week too.

Still not sure if an apprenticeship is for you?

Take a look at our links below to find out how an apprenticeship works in a bit more detail and browse through our advice and guidance to help you make that important decision about the next step of your career.

How does an apprenticeship work?

We have created an easy-to-understand breakdown of what an apprenticeship includes, making it easy for you to decide on whether an apprenticeship is right for you.

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Looking for information, advice, and guidance?

We have built an apprentice hub which contains all the information, advice, and guidance that should help to answer any questions you may have about apprenticeships.

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