Taking an apprenticeship in England
There are apprenticeships available for thousands of different jobs in a range of industries. From something hands-on like engineering, nursing or construction, to a career in marketing, law or project management, to name a few.
With an apprenticeship, most of your learning is through on-the-job training and you’ll work towards a qualification at the same time. You get paid a salary just like a normal employee, and you get dedicated study time throughout the week too.
To be considered for an apprenticeship programme in England, you need to be:
- aged 16 or over
- living in England
- not in full-time education
What apprenticeships are available in England?
There are four categories of apprenticeships available in England. Each type of apprenticeship will have different entry requirements. They are:
- Intermediate apprenticeships (Level 2)
- Advanced apprenticeships (Level 3)
- Higher apprenticeships (Level 4 and above)
- Degree apprenticeships (Levels 6 and 7)
Discover which industry might suit you
Interested in an apprenticeship but not sure what you want to do? Get to know the different industries offering apprenticeships, from marketing to architecture and business management to engineering.
Entry requirements for apprenticeships in England
The level of apprenticeship you start at depends on the qualifications you have and the role you’re applying for. For example, you might not need any qualifications to start a Level 2 apprenticeship, but you’ll need A Levels or equivalent for a Level 6 or 7 apprenticeship.
Each vacancy will state the entry requirements as well as any qualities or experience the employer is looking for. Make sure you read the vacancy carefully and get in touch with the employer if you have any questions.
The table below shows the different levels and their typical entry requirements.
| Level | Entry requirements |
| Intermediate (Level 2) – generally considered equivalent to five GCSE passes. | You may not need any qualifications, but you'll need to show interest in the subject area and that you have other skills the employer is looking for. |
| Advanced (Level 3) – generally considered equivalent to two A level passes. |
Employers may want up to 3 GCSEs depending on the role. Some may ask for previous experience in the industry. |
|
Higher (Level 4 and above) Level 4 – equivalent to a foundation degree, the first year of an undergraduate degree or a higher national certificate (HNC). Levels 5 and above – equivalent to a full degree. |
Entry requirements generally include five GCSEs grades A – C or 9 – 4, and either: • A-Levels You might need subjects related to the apprenticeship. |
|
Degree (Levels 5 to 7) – these are new and enable apprentices to achieve a foundation degree or more as part of their apprenticeship. Level 6 – equivalent to a full degree. Level 7 – equivalent to a master's degree. |
Entry requirements generally include five GCSEs grades A – C or 9 – 4, and either: • A-Levels You may need subjects related to the apprenticeship. |
Have a look at existing apprenticeship vacancies to see what level apprenticeship might be right for you.
Sign up to Career Finder
If you think an apprenticeship could be right for you, head over to Career Finder and create an account.
You'll be able to:
- search for all apprenticeship roles
- filter by subject area, role type, location, and level of apprenticeship
- shortlist jobs
- sign up for alerts
- keep tabs on applications you've made