Apprenticeships are designed to help you to gain hands-on experience within almost any industry. You learn new practical skills while earning a qualification and receiving a living wage. They take one to five years to complete and are open to anyone over the age of 16. There are three types of apprenticeships and they all require different levels of qualifications
Apprenticeships have the following equivalent educational levels:
Level 2
Equivalent Level
GCSE
Level 3
Equivalent Level
A Levels
Level 4, 5, 6 & 7
Equivalent Level
Foundation Degree and above
Level 6 & 7
Equivalent Level
Bachelor or Masters Degree
Apprentice pay and the National Minimum Wage
There are different rates of pay for apprentices depending on your age and what year of your apprenticeship you’re in.
Your employment contract should confirm your rate of pay.
Aged 16 to 18
The current National Minimum Wage rate for an apprentice is £5.28 per hour.
Aged 19 or over and in your first year
The current National Minimum Wage rate for an apprentice is £5.28 per hour.
Aged 19 or over and have completed your first year
You’re entitled to the National Minimum Wage or National Living Wage rate for your age.
