An apprenticeship is a job where you learn, gain hands-on experience, and get paid. You will work alongside staff who are experienced in your chosen field and will gain job-specific skills. As an apprentice you will study for at least 20% of your working hours, usually at a college, university, or with a training provider.
In order to start an apprenticeship, you must be aged 16 or over, and not already in full-time education. You can apply while you are still at school.
Apprenticeships usually take between 1 and 5 years to complete, depending on the level.
Qualification levels
The 4 different apprenticeship qualifications levels are:
- Intermediate: level 2 (equivalent to GSCE)
- Advanced: level 3 (equivalent to A level)
- Higher: level 4 or 5 (equivalent to foundation degree and above)
- Degree: level 6 or 7 (equivalent to Bachelor’s or Master’s degree).
As an apprentice, you will:
- Work alongside experienced staff
- Gain the skills necessary for work
- Study for a particular qualification
- Be paid a salary and get the same rights as employees.
To find information about how apprenticeships work and how to apply for an apprenticeship, please visit:
You can search for apprenticeship opportunities by visiting:
Making apprenticeships accessible
Apprenticeships cover a wide range of jobs/sectors and are a route into employment that is open to all, including young people with a disability or a long-term health condition.
Apprenticeships should be accessible, and employers, colleges and universities have a duty under the Equality Act 2010 to make reasonable adjustments for people with disabilities to ensure that they have equal access to services, employment and education.
To find more information about support for apprentices with disabilities or long term-health conditions, please visit: Apprenticeships.gov.uk - Support for apprentices with a learning difficulty or disability.
Useful Resources
Disability Rights UK have produced a guide to apprenticeships, which includes information and advice for young people with disabilities and their parents, as well as providing answers to frequently asked questions. To view the guide, please visit: Disability Rights UK - Into Apprenticeships.
Skills for Careers from the Department for Education provides lots of useful information about apprenticeships. To learn more, please visit: Skills for Careers - Apprenticeships.