Searching for apprenticeships in the UK for 2024? You’ve come to the right place. This comprehensive guide will provide everything you need to know about applying for apprenticeship positions across the UK this year.
What is an Apprenticeship?
An apprenticeship is a government-approved work-based training program that allows you to earn while you learn. As an apprentice, you will work for an employer while studying part time to gain skills and qualifications in a specific job role. Apprenticeships combine on-the-job training with classroom based study and can take between 1 to 5 years to complete depending on the level.There are various levels of apprenticeships available:
- Intermediate Apprenticeships: Equivalent to 5 GCSE passes
- Advanced Apprenticeships: Equivalent to 2 A-level passes
- Higher Apprenticeships: Equivalent to foundation degrees and above
- Degree Apprenticeships: Achieve a full bachelor’s or master’s degree
Apprentices gain transferable skills in communication, teamwork and time management. Upon completing their training, apprentices will have acquired job-specific skills and the necessary qualifications to kickstart their careers.
Benefits of Doing an Apprenticeship
There are many excellent reasons to consider an apprenticeship:
Earn While You Learn
Apprentices are paid employees, earning at least the National Minimum Wage appropriate for their age. By gaining qualifications and skills valued by employers, you can expect to see increased earnings as you progress through your career.
Gain Qualifications
Through your on-the-job and classroom training, you will work towards nationally recognized qualifications. These qualifications prove you have the skills employers want and can help you stand out from the crowd.
Increase Employability
Gaining relevant qualifications and work experience makes apprentices very employable. 91% of apprentice completers stay in employment, with many staying on with the company they trained with.
Minimal Cost
Unlike attending university or college, there are no tuition fees to pay as an apprentice. All costs associated with your academic learning are covered, meaning you earn while you learn.
Work Experience
Apprentices learn in a real-life work environment, gaining vital experience employers are looking for. By developing practical job-related skills, you become ‘work ready’ for your chosen career.
How Do I Apply?
If you’ve decided an apprenticeship is the right option for you, applying is straightforward. Here is the step-by-step process:
1. Choose Your ApprenticeshipDecide which apprenticeship and career path interests you. There are hundreds of roles available within these popular industries:
- Business, Administration and Law
- Construction
- Engineering and Manufacturing
- Health, Public Services and Care
- Information and Communication Technology
- Retail and Commercial Enterprise
Consider your existing qualifications, interests, strengths and career aspirations to narrow your choices down to a few favored roles.
2. Find a VacancyUse the Government website to search for available apprenticeships in your region. Set up alerts so you never miss a suitable vacancy.Alternatively, identify employers that offer apprenticeships in your chosen sector and check their website or contact them directly about applying.
3. Create an AccountTo apply for most apprenticeship vacancies, you will need to create an account on the Government’s website. This allows you to manage your applications and track their progress.
4. Prepare Your ApplicationCarefully read through the apprenticeship vacancy to understand what is required from applicants. Tailor your application to the role, highlighting any relevant qualifications, skills and experience you may have.Update your resume into a format suitable for applying to apprenticeships rather than other jobs.
5. Apply OnlineThe majority of apprenticeships involve applying online through the Government portal. Follow the instructions carefully, providing the requested information and documents to complete your application.Meeting deadlines is important so submit your application as early as possible.
6. Interview StageIf your application is successful, you will be invited for an interview with the employer. Use this opportunity to find out more about their expectations of you in the role and demonstrate your enthusiasm for the apprenticeship. Prepare answers to common interview questions ahead of time.Some employers may include aptitude tests, group exercises and presentation topics within their selection process.
7. Receive an OfferHopefully you will receive the news that you have been accepted! Confirm whether you need to formally accept the apprenticeship offer and agree on a start date to begin your training.Congratulations, you are now on your way to becoming a qualified apprentice!
Apprenticeship Funding
A major benefit of apprenticeships is that funding is available to support you through your training:Employer FundedYour employer covers the cost of your wages, on-the-job training and formal assessments. By contributing to these costs, they are investing in your skills and future.
Government FundedIf you are aged 16-18 years old when you start, the government will fully fund your apprenticeship training.If you are 19 or over, the government will contribute 95% of the costs of your off-the-job training and assessments if the apprenticeship supports you to gain your first full qualification at this level.
Extra SupportAdditional funding can provide further assistance with costs if you are:
- Aged 19 – 24 with an Education, Health and Care plan
- Have been in the care of the local authority
- On certain means-tested benefits
So don’t let funding worries stop you from applying, support is available!
Degree Apprenticeships
Degree apprenticeships are a popular choice, combining university-level study with practical on-the-job experience. Here’s what you need to know:
Study at University
Just like traditional university students, degree apprentices gain an accredited bachelor’s or master’s degree qualification. This off-the-job learning generally takes place one day a week at a partner university.
Paid Employment
For the remaining 4-5 days a week, degree apprentices undertake paid employment gaining valuable work experience in their industry. Assessment is through coursework and end-point assessment rather than exams alone.
No Tuition Fees
The best part is that the apprentice can achieve a full university degree without paying any tuition fees! All costs associated with end-point assessments and academic learning are covered by the employer and government.
Higher Future Earnings
By gaining a full bachelor’s or master’s degree, degree apprentices could see increased earnings over their careers. Many go on to highly skilled roles such as nurse, engineer, accountant and solicitor.So if you think a degree apprenticeship sounds like the perfect route for you, explore the UCAS website to find degree opportunities.
Applying for Apprenticeship Vacancies
Wondering when is the right time to start applying for apprenticeship vacancies in 2024? Here is what you need to know:Current OpportunitiesNew apprenticeship vacancies are advertised all year round.
Check the Government’s website frequently and set up alerts to never miss suitable openings.
Early Applications
That said, many employers start advertising vacancies in January – March for apprentices to start in September. Get your applications in nice and early to beat the competition.
Ongoing Recruitment
Unlike the university application process with fixed start dates, apprenticeship providers recruit on an ongoing basis as and when they need new apprentices to start.
Anytime Transfers
Those part way through an existing apprenticeship can search for apprentice transfer opportunities using the Government’s website too. This allows you to switch to a more suitable employer or training course if needed. So in summary, new vacancies crop up throughout the year making now a good time to begin your application. Set aside time each week to trawl websites for the latest opportunities.
Apprenticeships by Region
Apprenticeship opportunities exist nationwide across England. But which UK regions currently have the most positions available right now?Analysis of live apprenticeship vacancies in January 2024 shows that:
- London has the highest number of openings, followed by;
- North West
- West Midlands
- South East
- Yorkshire and The Humber
So those able to travel to these regions are likely to have the greatest choice of roles. That said, apprenticeships can be found across all local enterprise partnerships areas in fields as diverse as agriculture, construction, finance and law.Be open minded about location – sometimes relocating for an apprenticeship is an option and provides exciting new possibilities!
10 Growing Apprenticeship Industries
All industries now recognize the benefits of employing apprentice talent. But which sectors are seeing the biggest rises in apprenticeship positions available?The Top 10 Growing Sectors are:
- Health and Science
- Business, Administration and Law
- Engineering and Manufacturing
- Retail and Commercial Enterprise
- Construction
- Leisure, Travel and Tourism
- Information and Communication Technology
- Education and Training
- Arts, Media and Publishing
- Agriculture, Horticulture and Animal Care
So if you are interested in studying and working in these rapidly expanding industries, apply for relevant apprenticeship vacancies today! Competition will be high for such coveted positions.
Should I Choose an Apprenticeship?
Wondering if an apprenticeship is the right post-education option for you? Consider the main pros and cons of apprenticeships:Apprenticeship Pros:
- Earn a wage while learning on the job
- Gain qualifications and skills valued by employers
- Excellent future job prospects and earning potential
- Minimal cost as an employer and government funded
- Increased confidence and experience in the workplace
Apprenticeship Cons:
- Lower starting wage than skilled employment
- Commitment to full time work and study
- Competitive application process
- Limited vacancies in some industries/regions
- No student life like attending university full time
Overall, apprenticeships provide an excellent supported route into your chosen career, with most apprentices satisfied they made the right choice.
Parents’ Guide to Apprenticeships
As a parent, you naturally want to help your child make the best choices about their post-GCSE and A-Level options. Here’s what you need to know about apprenticeships:
Valuable Qualifications
Apprentices gain genuine vocational qualifications valued by employers. These can range from NVQs right through to bachelor’s and master’s degrees depending on the programme.
Increase Employability
By developing job-specific skills and work experience, your child will become highly employable. 91% of apprentice completers enter sustained employment.
Earn a Salary
Rather than accumulate student debt, apprentices earn from day one. This provides financial independence and teaches budgeting skills.
Skills Shortages
Many industries such as construction, engineering and technology suffer severe skills shortages. Apprenticeships are crucial to train the workforce these sectors need.
Future Earning Potential
Apprentices could earn an average of £150,000 more over their lifetime compared to those with Level 3 vocational qualifications. Earnings increase with higher apprenticeships. So apprenticeships provide fantastic career prospects now and in the future. Support your child to turn their interests and strengths into their chosen vocation.
