Apprenticeships explained

To be accepted onto an apprenticeship, you must meet any entry requirements.

Every apprentice follows an approved programme of study, designed for the job they’re training for.

Your employer will decide the structure of your training, but apprenticeships generally combine:

• a detailed training plan
• regular progress reviews
• practical training on the job
• theoretical study at a college
• assessment testing at a training facility
• mentoring and support throughout your apprenticeship.

By the end of the course, you should have gained the qualifications, skills and experience potential employers in the field are looking for.

Apprentices should work for a minimum of 30 hours a week, and a maximum of 40.

Time spent off the job at a college or in training is included.

Part-time apprenticeships can be agreed by your employer, at a minimum of 16 hours per week. For example, where apprentices have caring responsibilities.

One of the main benefits of doing an apprenticeship is you can earn a wage while you work and study.

An apprentice’s salary depends on various factors. These include:

• the type of apprenticeship you apply for
• your age, experience and existing qualifications
• the sector you’re working in – for example, engineering, retail or finance.

There’s a minimum wage for all young people enrolled on apprenticeships.

How much you get depends on your age and how long you’ve been doing the apprenticeship.

• If you’re aged 16-18, or in your first year and aged over 19, you’ll earn at least £5.28 an hour (for 2023-24). From 1 April 2024, the apprentice rate of the National Minimum Wage will be £6.40 an hour.
• If you’ve completed your first year and are aged over 19, you’ll earn at least the National Minimum Wage, which varies depending on your age.

Some employers might choose to pay you more than the National Minimum Wage.

As an apprentice, you might have to pay tax and National Insurance on your earnings.

You’re entitled to a payslip, which will show how much you earn and what deductions have been made.

Apprentices working more than 33 hours a week are entitled to the same benefits as everyone else in the workplace.

These include:

• sick pay entitlement
• at least 20 days’ paid holiday a year
• Statutory Maternity/Paternity Pay and maternity/paternity leave.

You might also be entitled to claim Universal Credit, and elements to cover other costs – for example, housing or bringing up children.

As an apprentice, you’ll be automatically enrolled in a workplace pension. This is as long as you meet the eligibility criteria – including being at least 22 years old.

If you’re under 22 years old, you won’t be automatically enrolled – but can choose to opt into the scheme.

Apprenticeships work differently depending on where you live. To find out more, go to:

• England: GOV.UK
• Scotland: apprenticeships.scot
• Wales: Careers Wales
• Northern Ireland: nidirect