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What Is An Apprenticeship?

19 February 2024

In this guide, we uncover eight key facts that you need to know about the schemes, including if you get paid for an apprenticeship to the levels of apprenticeship ranges.

An apprenticeship is a real job

Available to individuals aged 16+ (with no upper age limit), apprentices are typically employed for at least 30 hours per week.

Apprentices are paid a salary

All apprentices will earn a salary of at least the National Minimum Wage for apprentices. Many employers pay more!

Apprenticeships last a minimum of 12 months

Most apprenticeships take between 1 to 4 years to complete. It will depend on the level and delivery model of the apprenticeship. 

Apprenticeships range from level 2 to level 7

There are apprenticeships at levels equivalent to GCSEs right up to Master’s level and you can now achieve a degree through an apprenticeship.

Apprentices do not pay for their training

All apprenticeship costs are paid for by the employer and/or the government meaning that an apprentice will never have to pay for their training.

Apprentices will receive paid off-the-job learning

The equivalent of 6 hours per week of an apprentice’s paid time will be spent undertaking off-the-job learning, gaining valuable skills and qualifications

Apprentices will spend the majority of their time on-the-job

Most of an apprentice’s paid time will be spent on-the-job, working with colleagues to learn new skills and gain experience of the workplace.

There are thousands of apprenticeships in more than 170 industries

New apprenticeships are advertised each week covering a wide range of job roles. You will be amazed at the variety and breadth available!

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