Is an apprenticeship the right choice for me?

Apprenticeships are an exciting option – you get hands on training and the chance to put your skills into practice.

Apprenticeships are available at multiple levels. From school leavers, people upskilling in their careers and complete career changes. There are hundreds to choose from and some include a qualification, like a degree.

What you'll earn

What you will earn depends on the industry, location and type of apprenticeship you choose. If you’re aged 16 to 18 or in the first year of your apprenticeship, you’re entitled to the apprenticeship minimum hourly rate of £4.81 (£5.28 from April 2023).

If you’re 19 or over and have completed the first year of your apprenticeship, you’re entitled to the National Minimum Wage.

This is the minimum you will earn – many employers pay a lot more and off their apprentices a competitive salary.

What it costs

Apprenticeships are funded from contributions made by the government and your employer. This means you will not have any student loans or tuition fees.

You’ll just need to cover the cost of your day-to-day expenses, such as lunch and travel.

If you’re 16 to 24 and a care leaver, you’ll receive a £1,000 bursary payment to support you in the first year of your apprenticeship.