Apprenticeships Have Changed…

Apprenticeships today are available across a huge range of industries — from IT and engineering to finance, law, healthcare, and digital careers. There are hundreds of different roles available, meaning there is something for almost every career pathway.

Modern apprenticeships are designed to prepare young people for long-term careers. If you’re a school or college leaver, university isn’t your only option. Apprenticeships offer a powerful alternative — giving you real work experience, recognised qualifications, and the skills employers are looking for.

What Are Apprenticeships and How Do They Work?

Apprenticeships are real jobs where you combine paid work with structured training and study.

As an apprentice, you will:

• Earn a salary and receive holiday pay
• Work alongside experienced professionals
• Gain job-specific skills
• Spend at least 20% of your time in training or study

Apprenticeships can take between 8 months and 6 years, depending on the level and industry.

They are divided into four main levels in England:

• Intermediate (Level 2) – GCSE equivalent
• Advanced (Level 3) – A Level equivalent
• Higher (Levels 4–5) – Foundation degree/HND level
• Degree (Levels 6–7) – Bachelor’s or Master’s degree level

Apprenticeships in Scotland

Scotland has its own apprenticeship system, structured around three main pathways, all designed in partnership with employers.

Foundation Apprenticeships

For students in S4–S6, completed alongside school studies.

• Typically take around 2 years
• Equivalent to Higher level
• Combine school learning with real work experience
• Include time spent in college or the workplace

They provide a strong starting point and can lead directly into employment or further study.

Modern Apprenticeships (Scotland)

For anyone aged 16 and over.

• Earn a salary while working
• Gain Scottish Vocational Qualifications (SVQs)
• Typically take 1–4 years
• Available across a wide range of industries

These apprenticeships focus on developing practical, job-ready skills.

Graduate Apprenticeships

A degree-level route combining work and university study.

• Work full-time while studying
• Gain a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree
• Typically take 3–6 years
• No tuition fees

Graduate Apprenticeships provide a direct pathway into professional careers.

Intermediate Apprenticeships (Level 2)

This is the entry-level apprenticeship and a strong starting point.

Key points:

• Equivalent to GCSE level
• Work full-time (usually 30+ hours per week)
• Combine work with study and training
• Entry requirements vary (often GCSEs in English and Maths)

You’ll develop essential workplace skills and gain a recognised qualification, allowing progression to higher levels.

Advanced Apprenticeships (Level 3)

Equivalent to two A Levels and one of the most popular routes.

Key points:

• Typically takes 1–4 years
• Requires relevant GCSEs or prior experience
• Available across many sectors
• Leads to nationally recognised qualifications

Advanced apprentices develop specialist skills for a chosen career.

Higher Apprenticeships (Levels 4–5)

These programmes take learning further and open the door to skilled careers.

Key points:

• Equivalent to a foundation degree or HND
• Combine full-time work with higher-level study
• Typically take 1–5 years

Many apprentices move into permanent roles with their employer.

Degree Apprenticeships (Levels 6–7)

A strong alternative to traditional university.

Key points:

• Gain a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree
• Work full-time and study part-time
• Spend around 80% working and 20% studying
• Typically take 3–6 years
• No tuition fees

You will graduate with a degree, real experience, and no student debt.

Apprenticeship Pay (2026)

All apprentices must be paid at least the legal minimum wage, although many employers pay more.

From April 2026:

• Apprentice rate: £8.00 per hour
• Aged 18–20: £10.85 per hour
• Aged 21+: £12.71 per hour

Important:

• The apprentice rate applies if you are under 19, or 19+ in your first year
• After the first year (if aged 19+), you must be paid the minimum wage for your age

Salaries often increase significantly after completing an apprenticeship, especially in sectors like engineering, finance, and digital.

Why Choose an Apprenticeship?

• Earn a salary from day one
• Gain real-world experience
• Achieve recognised qualifications
• Avoid university tuition fees
• Build a clear career pathway

Apprenticeships provide a direct route into employment, combining education with practical experience.

Explore Your Future

There has never been a better time to consider an apprenticeship — whether in England, Scotland, or across the UK. With multiple entry points and progression routes, you can build a career that suits your ambitions.

Meet top UK employers and training providers at the National Apprenticeship & Education Event.
Be inspired and discover your future.

Book your free place today.