Student Guide to Apprenticeships 2024/2025

Starting a career can be intimidating, especially if you're not keen on spending four years in college and taking on debt. That’s where apprenticeships come in—they offer a practical alternative. They combine classroom learning with on-the-job training under experienced professionals, all while you earn a salary.

Apprenticeships have become increasingly popular in the UK. According to Education Statistics from Gov.uk and the House of Commons Library, during the 2022/23 academic year, an impressive 752,150 people participated in apprenticeships—including 337,140 new starts and 162,320 completions. Fields like information technology, healthcare, and advanced manufacturing have grown significantly, making apprenticeships a smart and viable career path for many.

We’ll explain everything you need to know about apprenticeships and how to get started.

What is a Degree Apprenticeship?

A degree apprenticeship is a program that combines full-time work with part-time university study, allowing apprentices to earn a university degree while gaining practical experience in their chosen field. These programs are designed to address the skills gap in various industries by providing employers with a skilled workforce and offering individuals a debt-free alternative to traditional university education.

In a degree apprenticeship, you'll spend part of your time working for an employer and the remaining time studying at a university. This typically involves a mix of on-the-job training, online learning, and classroom instruction. The employer and the educational institution work together to ensure that the apprenticeship curriculum aligns with industry needs and academic standards.

Common Fields of Apprenticeship

Traditionally, apprenticeships have been popular in skilled trades like construction, plumbing, and electrical work. However, they are also growing in fields like healthcare and information technology. Here are some common fields:

  • Construction
  • Electrical work
  • Plumbing
  • Healthcare
  • Information Technology

Requirements for an Apprenticeship

To start an apprenticeship, you must be at least 16 years old, although some programs require you to be 18 due to the nature of the work. Other requirements vary by program, including having a high school diploma or equivalent.

Benefits of an Apprenticeship

Apprenticeships offer numerous benefits that can significantly enhance your career prospects. One of the main advantages is the ability to earn a salary while learning. This financial independence is a significant benefit compared to traditional college education, where students often accumulate substantial debt. By engaging in an apprenticeship, you can support yourself financially while gaining valuable skills and experience.

Another key benefit of an apprenticeship is the professional experience it provides. From the very beginning, you work on real projects and tasks in a business environment, which makes you more competitive and employable. This hands-on experience is invaluable and sets you apart from those who only have theoretical knowledge. Additionally, the opportunity to take online courses to further enhance your skills complements this practical experience. Platforms like Coursera offer a variety of online courses that can supplement your apprenticeship training, whether you want to learn additional technical skills, improve your business acumen, or gain knowledge in a specific area relevant to your field. Combining the practical experience of an apprenticeship with the theoretical knowledge from online courses can significantly boost your employability and career prospects.

Furthermore, apprenticeships provide the unique benefit of mentorship. Working under the supervision of experienced professionals allows you to learn directly from those who have been in the field for years.

This mentorship is invaluable, as it offers insights and guidance that can only come from seasoned professionals. The combination of earning while you learn, gaining hands-on professional experience, and receiving mentorship makes apprenticeships an excellent pathway to a successful career.

How do I find apprenticeships? 

Before you start looking for an apprenticeship, consider what field interests you the most. Research various occupations and the skills required for each. Fields like advanced manufacturing, agriculture, cybersecurity, financial services, healthcare, hospitality, IT, telecommunications, and transportation offer many apprenticeship opportunities.

  • GOV.UK Find an Apprenticeship: This government website allows you to search for apprenticeship opportunities by keyword, job title, employer, or reference number. You can filter results by location and apprenticeship level. 
  • Amazing Apprenticeships: This site offers a wealth of information on apprenticeships, including a search tool for vacancies and detailed guides on various sectors. 
  • Not Going to Uni: This platform lists apprenticeship opportunities and provides information on alternative education paths. You can search for apprenticeships by sector, location, and employer. 
  • Indeed: Use the apprenticeship filter on Indeed to find paid apprenticeship listings in your area. 
  • UCAS Career Finder: UCAS offers a tool to find higher and degree apprenticeships. It's especially useful for students who are also considering university options. 

Preparing for Your Apprenticeship

Balancing a full-time job with classroom instruction can be challenging, so it's crucial to organize your study materials, manage your time effectively, and prepare for the demands of your new role. Proper organization will help you stay on top of your responsibilities and ensure that you can meet both work and academic deadlines without feeling overwhelmed.

It's also important to research the company offering the apprenticeship. Learning as much as you can about the company's values, culture, and job specifics will help you make a good impression and understand what to expect in your new role. When researching online, consider using a Virtual Private Network for added security, especially if you're using a Mac. A VPN, such as ExpressVPN, helps protect your privacy and keeps your internet connection secure, which is essential when accessing sensitive information or applying for apprenticeships online.

Additionally, planning your commute is an essential aspect of preparing for your apprenticeship. Consider how you will get to work and your training provider, and plan your route in advance. Account for any potential delays to ensure you arrive on time, as punctuality is crucial in making a positive impression and maintaining a good standing with your employer. By organizing your time and materials, researching the company, and planning your commute, you can set yourself up for success in your apprenticeship.

FAQs

What is the difference between an apprenticeship and an internship? Apprenticeships are paid, lead to full-time employment, and last at least a year, often up to four years. Internships are often unpaid, shorter, and do not guarantee a full-time job.

How do I find an apprenticeship? Use resources like GOV.UK Find an Apprenticeship, Amazing Apprenticeships, Not Going to Uni, and job search websites like Indeed.

Do I need a high school diploma to start an apprenticeship? Requirements vary by program, but many apprenticeships require a high school diploma or the equivalent.

Can I change my mind after starting an apprenticeship? Yes, you can change your mind. If you decide an apprenticeship isn't for you, you can seek other employment or educational opportunities.

Will I earn a nationally recognized credential? Yes, upon completing a registered apprenticeship program, you will receive a nationally recognized certificate of completion.

An apprenticeship can be a rewarding path to a fulfilling career. Use this guide to help you get started and maximize your apprenticeship experience.