What is an apprenticeship?
Apprenticeships are a great way to receive nationally recognised qualifications, while gaining career experience, earning a salary and avoiding student debt.
Anyone aged 16 and over can take up an apprenticeship, across a wide range of industries.
With an apprenticeship, you’ll be learning and earning at the same time, spending a minimum of 20% of your paid work time doing off-the-job training. Apprentices are also entitled to employee rights, such as leave and holiday pay, and will earn at least the national minimum wage.
An apprenticeship can take between 1-6 years to complete depending on the which role you choose, the level, and your previous experience.
Discover some of the opportunities available, as well as expert advice on applications in Options Guide.
What qualifications can I get with an apprenticeship?
| Intermediate | Level 2 | Equivalent to 5 GCSE passes or (4-9) |
| Advanced | Level 3 | Equivalent to 2 A-Level passes |
| Higher | Level 4 & 5 | Equivalent to a Foundation Degree/HND/HNC |
| Degree | Level 6 & 7 | Equivalent to a Bachelor’s or Master’s Degree |
What kind of job can I have with an apprenticeship?
There are apprenticeships in a wide range of industries. You could be working in healthcare, engineering, media, accounting, science, business, art & graphic design, animal care, marketing, technology… the list goes on!
Apprenticeships are on offer in small local businesses right through to large, international brands, giving you a varied range of opportunities to start your career.
What qualifications do I need to apply for an apprenticeship?
Entry requirements vary depending on the level you are applying for, but at the minimum you must be aged 16 or over and not in full time education or employment.
- Level 2: No previous experience needed. Foundation apprenticeships are also set at level 2, however some employers may ask for GCSEs in English and Maths.
- Level 3: You will likely need some qualifications – typically at least three GCSEs – or relevant experience.
- Levels 4 to 5: Relevant qualifications including five GCSEs, including English and Maths, and Level 3 qualifications such A-levels, a BTEC, or a Level 3 apprenticeship.
- Level 6 (Degree level): Five GCSEs, plus at least two or three A-levels, a Level 3/4 apprenticeship, a BTEC National, or a Foundation degree. You may also need to demonstrate relevant experience or specific sector knowledge.
- Level 7 (Master’s level): Usually a minimum 2:2 Undergraduate degree or a Level 5/6 apprenticeship. Substantial work experience in a relevant field can sometimes be substituted for specific academic qualifications.
How do you apply for an apprenticeship?
Recruitment processes vary from employer to employer, but applications often follow a broadly similar path. Knowing what to expect at each stage can help you plan ahead and stay organised.
Most applications will require:
- completing an online application form or submitting a CV
- taking online psychometric or behavioural assessments
- attending a video, phone, or face-to-face interview
- participating in an assessment centre or completing a practical task
- receiving a formal offer
The full process can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months, so it’s important to keep track of key dates and respond promptly to any communications.
Speak to leading apprenticeship providers in person!
Not sure where to start with your apprenticeship application? Join thousands of like-minded young people and their parents at What University? & What Career? Live to speak with leading employers and apprenticeship providers.
Taking place at the NEC, Birmingham, in Spring and Olympia, London, in Autumn – these unmissable free events are the perfect place to discover the next steps on your apprenticeship journey.
Find out more with the National Apprenticeship Service
