Apprenticeships

Apprenticeships are real jobs that allow you to earn a wage while you learn. They can take between 1 and 5 years to complete, depending on the level.

Starting an apprenticeship

To start an apprenticeship, you’ll need to:

• be 16 or over

• live in England

• not be in full-time education

You can apply for an apprenticeship while you’re still at school.

What you'll do as an apprentice

An apprenticeship is a job where you’ll:

• earn a wage and get holiday pay

• work alongside experienced staff

• gain job-specific skills

• get time for training and study related to your role

The training might be at your place of work, a college, a training provider or online.

Types of apprenticeships

There are over 600 different apprenticeships. No matter what career you’re interested in, there’s likely to be an apprenticeship for you. You can view all types of apprenticeships on GOV.UK.

Levels of apprenticeships

You’ll earn a qualification from your apprenticeship.

The 4 different apprenticeship levels are:

• intermediate: level 2

• advanced: level 3

• higher: level 4 or 5

• degree: level 6 or 7

Apprenticeships also have equivalent educational levels listed on GOV.UK. For example, a level 3 apprenticeship is considered the same level of qualification as 2 or 3 A levels.