The different levels of apprenticeships explained
National Apprenticeship Week 2023
What is an apprenticeship?
An apprenticeship is a paid job where you learn and gain experience while working. 80% of your time will be in the workplace with around 20% in training at a college or training provider.
They can be done for hundreds of jobs, both on and off-site with degree apprenticeships helping you gain a university degree with none of the cost.
"What could I do an apprenticeship in?"
With over 600 apprenticeship standards, you can do an apprenticeship in almost anything. It’s not just for on-site, labour, or manual jobs either. If you’re interested in business development, marketing or management there are apprenticeships for those jobs too.
"Where do I find an apprenticeship?"
There are lots of places to search online for an apprenticeship, you can use the Government find an apprenticeship service and check vacancies using Talentview Construction.
Live in Scotland? Please find an apprenticeship and check vacancies here.
Live in Wales? Please find an apprenticeship and check vacancies here.
It’s also worth contacting employers directly to register your interest in working for them, many will have apprenticeship schemes available.
"How do I apply for an apprenticeship?"
Before you apply you’ll need to be 16 or over and live in England, Scotland or Wales and find an employer who will take you on and train you on the job.
Our guides on how to write a CV, how to write a cover letter and how to prepare for an interview can help get you started.
"How much could I earn?"
The national minimum wage for apprentices will increase in April 2022 from £4.30 to £4.81 per hour. Once you have completed your first year, this will rise to £8.36. It’s worth noting many employers will pay more than the minimum wage so speak to them before starting to clarify.
As an apprentice the cost of your training is covered by your employer - win, win.