FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What is an apprenticeship? An apprenticeship is a technical course which is predominantly taught in the workplace through on and off-the-job training and accompanying study, normally through a day release to college. As an apprentice you will be employed by an organisation who will train you and support you throughout your learning, whilst also paying you a salary. Depending on the level of study and the industry you choose, your apprenticeship could take you between 12-48 months to complete. What levels of apprenticeship are there? There are various levels of apprenticeships to apply for depending on current skills and qualifications. Apprenticeships have equivalent educational levels: Intermediate - Level 2 Apprenticeship = 5 GCSE passed at grade A*-C or 9-4 Advanced - Level 3 Apprenticeship = 2 A Level Passes Higher - Level 4, 5, 6 and 7 Apprenticeship = HND Level and above Degree - Level 6 and 7 Apprenticeship = Bachelor’s or Master’s Degree All apprenticeships include elements of on and off-the-job training leading to industry recognised standards or qualifications. All apprenticeships will require an assessment at the end of the programme to assess the apprentice’s ability and competence in their job role.
Can anyone become an apprentice? Apprenticeships are open to anyone 15+ years old and have officially left school, and not in full-time education. As an apprentice, you must have an employer as they will support you through your apprenticeship and invest in your training. Many apprenticeships, just like other courses, will have entry requirements, so please check this with a member of our team or check out the course listings on our website. However, competition for places with employers can be fierce, so you will need to show that you are committed, and aware of your responsibilities to both yourself and the company who would employ you. You also need to be happy to work as both part of a team and individually, and be able to use your own initiative. What can I expect to be paid as a apprentice? Your salary will be determined by your employer who’ll take into consideration your age, experience and potential. The minimum wage for an apprentice is £8.00 per hour*. This rate applies to the first 12 months of an apprenticeship, regardless of age. It will then increase to the National Minimum Wage for your age group. However, your salary is at the discretion of your employer and in many instances, you could be paid more than the National Minimum Wage. *Salary correct as of April 2026. Do I need to be employed to do an apprenticship? Yes. All apprentices must be employed and working more than 16 hours per week before we can offer you a training programme. Don’t worry – sometimes it can be hard to find the right role and employer to suit you. Our Business Development Leaders will continue to work with you and our employer partners to find you the right apprenticeship. As soon as you secure employment, you can transfer from your college course onto your apprenticeship, no matter how far along you are on your course.
Is an apprenticeship as good as any other levels of study?
Yes. An apprenticeship is as challenging, if not more so, than any other type of study within a college or university setting. As an apprentice you will be expected to work more than 16 hours per week which should include any additional hours for your studies and/or a day release to college. It is hard work, but employers recognise the effort required to succeed and will know that you have shown a great level of dedication and commitment to your job role and qualification.
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