An apprenticeship is a real job with training, so you can earn a wage while you learn and become fully trained in your chosen occupation by the end of the apprenticeship. It allows you to improve your skills and progress in your career.
What is an apprenticeship?
Don’t assume you’re too old. Apprenticeships for over 25s are increasingly common, and it might be the perfect way for you to change career.
- is open to anyone over the age of 16, not enrolled in full-time education
- is available in over 170 industries, including aerospace, finance and fashion
- takes from one to five years to complete, depending on: age, skills and sector
- combines practical ‘on the job’ training with study, and you might work towards a qualification.
| Name | Level | Equivalent educational level |
|---|---|---|
|
Intermediate |
2 |
GCSE |
|
Advanced |
3 |
A Level |
|
Higher |
4, 5, 6 and 7 |
Foundation degree and above |
|
Degree |
6 and 7 |
Bachelor’s or Master’s degree |
To be accepted onto an apprenticeship, you must meet any entry requirements.
Find out at GOV.UK about the benefits of apprenticeshipsOpens in a new window
What would I learn?
Every apprentice follows an approved programme of study, designed for the job they’re training for.
Your employer will decide the structure of your training, but apprenticeships generally combine:
- a detailed training plan
- regular progress reviews
- practical training on the job
- theoretical study at a college
- assessment testing at a training facility
- mentoring and support throughout your apprenticeship.
By the end of the course, you should have gained the qualifications, skills and experience potential employers in the field are looking for.
How many hours would I work a week?
Apprentices should work for a minimum of 30 hours a week, and a maximum of 48 (40 hours if under 18 years old).
Time spent off the job at a college or in training is included.
Part-time apprenticeships can be agreed by your employer, at a minimum of 16 hours per week. For example, where apprentices have caring responsibilities.
Find out at GOV.UK more about apprenticeshipsOpens in a new window
Wages for apprentices
One of the main benefits of doing an apprenticeship is you can earn a wage while you work and study.
An apprentice’s salary depends on various factors. These include:
- the type of apprenticeship you apply for
- your age, experience and existing qualifications
- the sector you’re working in – for example, engineering, retail or finance.
Redundancy Support Service for apprentices
Are you facing redundancy during your apprenticeship? The government has launched a new service which offers free advice and can help you find new opportunities.
Minimum wage
There’s a minimum wage for all young people enrolled on apprenticeships.
How much you get depends on your age and how long you’ve been doing the apprenticeship.
- If you’re aged 16-18, or in your first year and aged over 19, you’ll earn at least £6.40 an hour for 2024/25. From 1 April 2025, you'll earn at least £7.55 an hour.
- If you’ve completed your first year and are aged over 19, you’ll earn at least the National Minimum Wage, which varies depending on your age.
Some employers might choose to pay you more than the National Minimum Wage.
As an apprentice, you might have to pay tax and National Insurance on your earnings.
You’re entitled to a payslip, which will show how much you earn and what deductions have been made.
Apprentice benefits
Apprentices are entitled to the same benefits as everyone else in the workplace.
These include:
- sick pay entitlement
- at least 20 days’ paid holiday a year
- Statutory Maternity/Paternity Pay and maternity/paternity leave.
You might also be entitled to claim Universal Credit, and elements to cover other costs – for example, housing or bringing up children.
Find out more about claiming in our guide Universal Credit explained
Apprenticeships and workplace pensions
As an apprentice, you’ll be automatically enrolled in a workplace pension. This is as long as you meet the eligibility criteria – including being at least 22 years old.
If you’re under 22 years old, you won’t be automatically enrolled – but can choose to opt into the scheme.
Where to find out more
Apprenticeships work differently depending on where you live. To find out more, go to:
- England: GOV.UK
- Scotland: apprenticeships.scot
- Wales: Careers Wales
- Northern Ireland: nidirect
