Apprenticeships

An apprenticeship is a real job with training which would allow you to earn while you learn, whilst gaining a nationally-recognised qualification. Apprenticeships take between one and five years to complete and are available in 1,500 occupations across 170 industries varying from construction to manufacturing through to IT and the creative and digital sectors.

• Earning a salary

• Training in the skills employers want

• Excellent progression opportunities, whether looking to study further or climb the ranks within the workplace

• Increased future earning potential

• Apprentices enjoy marked salary increases when they complete their training, and those completing a higher apprenticeship could see increased earnings of an estimated £150,000 over their lifetime

• Learning at a pace suited to the individual with the support of a mentor

• Paid holiday

Apprenticeships are available to anyone over the age of 16 living in England. There are different entry requirements depending on the sector and job.

The minimum wage for apprentices is £5.28** per hour, but many employers pay more than this.  This is dependent on the sector, region and apprenticeship level eg some higher apprenticeships can pay as much as £300 - £500 per week. More details on salaries and entry criteria in specific apprenticeship occupations can be accessed by looking at the vacancies on Find an apprenticeship.

** wage rates change annually check https://www.gov.uk/national-minimum-wage-rates for updates.