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. 

97.6% of our apprentices progressed to employment or further study*.

(*Destination data, based on apprentices completing in academic year 2016/17).

Why choose Northumberland College?

96% of our apprentices agree that they have the chance to develop new skills at their workplace*.

(*On-programme Survey 2018, apprentices)

97% of our apprentices agree that their course is helping their skills to get better.*

(*On-programme Survey 2018, apprentices)

96% of our apprentices agree that they are happy with their course.*

(*On-programme Survey 2018, apprentices)

We have over 40 Apprenticeship programmes across a range of career sectors.