Everything you need to know about apprenticeships in England, including what they are, entry requirements, and more.

Taking an apprenticeship in England

There are apprenticeships available for thousands of different jobs in a range of industries. From something hands-on like engineering, nursing or construction, to a career in marketing, law or project management, to name a few.

With an apprenticeship, most of your learning is through on-the-job training and you’ll work towards a qualification at the same time. You get paid a salary just like a normal employee, and you get dedicated study time throughout the week too.

To be considered for an apprenticeship programme in England, you need to be:

  • aged 16 or over
  • living in England, the British Overseas Territories, or Crown Dependencies (Channel Islands and Isle of Man) 
  • not in full-time education

Care-experienced students

If you're in care, or have experience of being in care, Amazing Apprenticeships Care Leavers Guide gives info about apprenticeships and what help is available if you're considering an apprenticeship in England, including financial assistance.

A day in the life of a Sales Apprentice

Wondering what an apprenticeship is like?

Hear from Sheona about what her day-to-day life is like as a Level 4 sales apprentice with Coca-Cola Europacific Partners.

What level apprenticeships are available in England?

Discover which industry might suit you

Interested in an apprenticeship but not sure what you want to do? Get to know the different industries offering apprenticeships, from marketing to architecture and business management to engineering.

Explore industries

Entry requirements for apprenticeships in England

An apprenticeship is a real job, so you’ll also need to meet any other criteria set out by the employer. Entry requirements are different depending on the employer and the role, and will vary per vacancy. Make sure you read the vacancy carefully and get in touch with the employer if you have any questions.

Remember, it’s not all about qualifications. Employers will be looking for willingness to learn, passion, and transferrable skills you could bring to the role.

Jonny - Director of Business Operations at PwC

"When we’re looking for our apprentices, there really isn’t a specific type of person, or specific skill set we’re looking for. Instead, it’s about recognising people with ambition and a determination to succeed."

Helena - Apprenticeship Lead at Walsall Council

"We always employ our apprentices with a view beyond their qualification as the objective is always to progress people through and up the organisation. We’re here to equip our staff with the skills they need to succeed."

Looking for jobs and apprenticeships? We can match you to potential employers.

Just create a UCAS account and fill in a quick form to tell us what you are interested in, where you live, and how far you want to travel.

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