FAQs

You can search for vacancies through the government’s Find an apprenticeship service, employer websites, training providers and apprenticeship job websites.

You can also contact an employer directly or ask your current employer whether it offers apprenticeship training.

Alternatively, see what vacancies are being advertised by employers, right now.

No. You must normally be aged 16 or over to start an apprenticeship, but there is no general upper age limit.

You must also usually live in England and not be in full-time education when the apprenticeship starts. Adults can use apprenticeships to change careers or gain new skills in their current job.

Yes, but the entry requirements are different for every apprenticeship.

Some employers ask for particular qualifications, subjects, skills or experience. Others focus more on your interest in the role, attitude and willingness to learn.

Check the individual vacancy carefully before applying.

An apprenticeship can take between eight months and six years to complete.

The length depends on the occupation, apprenticeship level, programme and any relevant skills or experience you already have.

Higher and Degree apprenticeships usually take longer than many Level 2 or Level 3 programmes.

Most of your time will be spent completing your job and gaining practical experience.

Part of your paid working time will be used for apprenticeship training. This might include college or university sessions, online learning, workshops, mentoring, assignments and workplace projects.

Training may take place each week, in study blocks or through a mix of different methods.

Apprentices must be paid for both their working time and apprenticeship training.

From 1 April 2026, the apprentice minimum wage is £8.00 per hour. This applies if you are under 19 or aged 19 or over and in the first year of your apprenticeship.

After your first year, apprentices aged 19 or over must receive at least the minimum wage for their age. The current rates are £10.85 for those aged 18 to 20 and £12.71 for those aged 21 or over.

Many employers choose to pay more than the legal minimum.

Use the government’s Find an apprenticeship service to search by job, employer, town or postcode.

You can also search the vacancies listed on the Apprenticeship Guide and check the careers pages of employers in your area.

Remember that some apprenticeships may include remote, hybrid or multi-site working.

https://www.apprenticeships.gov.uk/apprentices/browse-apprenticeships

Yes. An apprenticeship can show employers that you have practical experience, job-specific training and an understanding of the workplace.

It can also help you demonstrate useful skills such as teamwork, communication, organisation and problem-solving.

How an apprenticeship supports your application will depend on the role and employer.

Apprenticeships can begin at any time of the year.

Some larger apprenticeship programmes begin in September, but many employers advertise vacancies throughout the year.

Check regularly and pay close attention to the application deadline and expected start date.

An apprenticeship may suit you if you prefer practical learning and want to earn a wage while gaining workplace experience.

Some apprenticeships include a degree or professional qualification, and eligible apprenticeship training costs are normally paid by the employer and government.

University may suit people who prefer academic study or need a particular degree for their chosen career. Compare both routes before deciding which is right for you.

The level of competition varies between employers, industries and apprenticeship programmes.

Some vacancies receive many applications, including Level 2 and Level 3 opportunities. Higher and Degree apprenticeships can also have detailed entry requirements and several recruitment stages.

A tailored application, good employer research and clear examples of your skills can improve your chances.

Apprentices are employees rather than full-time students, but they may still qualify for some discounts.

Recognised apprentices can apply for a TOTUM Apprentice membership, which offers discounts with participating businesses.

Other discounts, travel cards and bank accounts have their own eligibility rules, so check directly with the provider before applying.

Yes. An apprentice is an employee and has the same basic employment rights as other members of staff.

These include pay, holiday entitlement, rest breaks, sick leave and protection from discrimination.

Your contract may be permanent or may cover a fixed period. Check the employment terms before accepting the apprenticeship.

Yes. Apprentices are entitled to paid annual leave.

Most workers receive at least 5.6 weeks of paid holiday each year. For someone working five days a week, this is usually 28 days.

Bank holidays may be included within this allowance, although some employers provide them as additional days.

A full-time apprentice normally works at least 30 hours a week, including paid training time.

Part-time apprenticeships are also possible. If you work fewer than 30 hours a week, the programme will usually take longer to complete.

Workers aged under 18 must not normally work more than eight hours a day or 40 hours a week. Most adult workers must not work more than an average of 48 hours a week unless they choose to opt out.

No. An employer does not have to offer you a permanent role when your apprenticeship ends.

Some employers recruit apprentices with the aim of keeping them, while others may only be able to offer employment for the length of the programme.

Even if you are not offered a permanent job, you will leave with workplace experience, developed skills and an apprenticeship certificate.

The amount of off-the-job training depends on the apprenticeship standard you choose.

Each apprenticeship has a minimum number of training hours. These hours should be explained in your apprenticeship agreement and training plan before you start.

Training normally takes place during your paid working hours. It could include lessons, online learning, workshops, mentoring, practical training, assignments or workplace projects.

It does not always mean attending college one day each week.

Apprenticeships are assessed to check that you have gained the knowledge, skills and behaviours needed for the occupation.

The assessment method depends on your apprenticeship standard. It could include practical tasks, professional discussions, projects, observations, tests or presentations.

The government is introducing a new assessment system during 2026 and 2027. Under revised standards, some assessment may take place during the apprenticeship rather than only at the end.

Your employer and training provider should explain how your apprenticeship will be assessed before you begin.

Yes. You can apply for an apprenticeship even if you already have GCSEs, A levels, vocational qualifications or a university degree.

However, the apprenticeship must teach you significant new knowledge and skills. It should not simply repeat learning you have already completed.

Your training provider will review your previous qualifications and experience before the apprenticeship starts.