Exploring Popular Apprenticeships in the UK, include job descriptions, salary information and career prospects.
Apprenticeships inevitably stand out popular and the most practical offering rewarding paths for individuals seeking on-the-job training, professional growth, and industry recognised qualifications. As we delve into the realm of apprenticeships in the UK, it's intriguing to uncover the most sought after apprenticeships that ignite the aspirations of budding apprentices. To help you decide which apprenticeship is best for you, we have highlighted the top 12 most popular apprenticeships in the UK in 2024, shedding light on what the job entails, your career prospects, and the reasons behind their popularity.
1. Engineering Apprenticeships
Job Description: Engineering apprenticeships encompass a wide array of specialisations, including mechanical, electrical, and civil engineering. Apprentices engage in practical training alongside academic studies, honing their skills in design, construction, and maintenance.
Training Programs: Typically, apprentices undergo structured training programs that combine on-the-job learning with classroom-based instruction. They gain hands-on experience working on real projects under the mentorship of seasoned professionals.
Salary and Qualifications: Salaries for engineering apprenticeships vary depending on the level of experience and the employer. However, apprentices can expect competitive remuneration packages, often accompanied by opportunities for progression and professional development. Qualifications obtained may include NVQs, BTECs, or higher-level apprenticeship certifications.
Career Progression: Upon completion of their apprenticeships, individuals can pursue diverse career paths within the engineering sector, ranging from project management to specialist roles in areas such as renewable energy or aerospace.
Types of Companies: Engineering apprenticeships are offered by a broad spectrum of companies, including multinational corporations, engineering consultancies, and manufacturing firms.
Why It's Popular: Engineering apprenticeships appeal to many due to the opportunity to work on innovative projects, acquire valuable technical skills, and enjoy promising career prospects in a dynamic industry.
2. Digital Marketing Apprenticeships
Job Description: Digital marketing apprenticeships equip individuals with the skills to navigate the ever-evolving landscape of online marketing. Apprentices learn to develop digital strategies, manage social media campaigns, and analyse data to optimise marketing efforts.
Training Programs: Apprenticeships in digital marketing often involve practical training in areas such as search engine optimisation (SEO), content creation, and email marketing. Apprentices may also undertake formal qualifications, such as diplomas in digital marketing.
Salary and Qualifications: Digital marketing apprenticeships offer competitive salaries, with opportunities for advancement as skills and experience grow. Qualifications obtained may include certificates from professional bodies like the Chartered Institute of Marketing (CIM) or digital marketing apprenticeship standards.
Career Progression: Graduates of digital marketing apprenticeships can pursue roles as digital marketing executives, social media managers, or SEO specialists. With experience, they may advance to managerial positions or freelance consultancy roles.
Types of Companies: Digital marketing apprenticeships are prevalent across industries, including advertising agencies, e-commerce businesses, and corporate marketing departments.
Why It's Popular: The proliferation of digital channels has driven the demand for skilled digital marketers. Apprenticeships in this field offer a direct pathway to gaining relevant expertise and entering a rapidly expanding industry.
3. Healthcare Apprenticeships
Job Description: Healthcare apprenticeships encompass a range of roles, from healthcare assistants to nursing associates and allied health professionals. Apprentices provide essential support in clinical settings, assisting with patient care and medical procedures.
Training Programs: Apprenticeships in healthcare combine practical training with theoretical study, covering topics such as anatomy, physiology, and patient communication. Apprentices work under the supervision of registered healthcare professionals, gaining hands-on experience in a clinical environment.
Salary and Qualifications: Salaries for healthcare apprenticeships vary depending on the role and employer, with opportunities for progression as qualifications are obtained. Qualifications may include NVQs, diplomas in health and social care, or higher-level apprenticeship certifications.
Career Progression: Healthcare apprentices can progress to become registered nurses, paramedics, or healthcare scientists, with opportunities for specialisation in areas such as mental health, paediatrics, or emergency medicine.
Types of Companies: Healthcare apprenticeships are offered by NHS trusts, private hospitals, care homes, and community healthcare providers.
Why It's Popular: The healthcare sector offers rewarding career opportunities, with apprenticeships providing a structured pathway for individuals to enter and advance within this vital industry.
4. Construction Apprenticeships
Job Description: Construction apprenticeships cover a range of trades, including carpentry, plumbing, and bricklaying. Apprentices learn practical skills related to construction techniques, site safety, and project management.
Training Programs: Apprenticeships in construction typically involve a combination of on-site training and classroom-based learning. Apprentices work under the guidance of experienced tradespeople, gaining hands-on experience in building and renovation projects.
Salary and Qualifications: Salaries for construction apprenticeships vary depending on the trade and location. Apprentices may earn while they learn, with opportunities to progress to higher-level qualifications such as HNCs or foundation degrees.
Career Progression: Graduates of construction apprenticeships can pursue careers as tradespeople, site managers, or construction project managers. With experience, they may establish their own construction businesses or specialise in niche areas such as heritage restoration or sustainable construction.
Types of Companies: Construction apprenticeships are offered by construction firms, house-builders, civil engineering companies, and subcontractors within the construction industry.
Why It's Popular: Construction apprenticeships offer a practical route into a thriving industry, providing opportunities to develop valuable skills and contribute to the built environment.
5. IT and Software Development Apprenticeships
Job Description: IT and software development apprenticeships focus on equipping individuals with the skills to design, develop, and maintain software applications and systems. Apprentices learn programming languages, software development methodologies, and problem-solving techniques.
Training Programs: Apprenticeships in IT and software development blend practical training with theoretical study, covering topics such as programming fundamentals, database management, and software testing. Apprentices may also undertake industry recognised certifications such as Microsoft Certified Solutions Developer (MCSD) or Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA).
Salary and Qualifications: Salaries for IT apprenticeships vary depending on the level of experience and the employer. Qualifications obtained may include NVQs, diplomas in IT, or higher-level apprenticeship certifications.
Career Progression: Graduates of IT apprenticeships can pursue roles as software developers, IT support technicians, or network engineers. With experience, they may specialise in areas such as cybersecurity, cloud computing, or data analysis.
Types of Companies: IT and software development apprenticeships are offered by technology companies, software development firms, IT consultancy firms, and in-house IT departments across industries.
Why It's Popular: The demand for skilled IT professionals continues to grow, making IT apprenticeships an attractive option for individuals interested in pursuing careers in technology.
6. Financial Services Apprenticeships
Job Description: Financial services apprenticeships encompass roles in banking, insurance, and investment management. Apprentices learn about financial products and services, regulatory compliance, and customer relationship management.
Training Programs: Apprenticeships in financial services combine practical training with theoretical study, covering topics such as financial regulations, risk management, and investment analysis. Apprentices may also undertake professional qualifications such as the Chartered Institute for Securities & Investment (CISI) exams.
Salary and Qualifications: Salaries for financial services apprenticeships vary depending on the role and employer. Qualifications obtained may include NVQs, diplomas in financial services, or higher-level apprenticeship certifications.
Career Progression: Graduates of financial services apprenticeships can pursue careers as financial advisors, banking relationship managers, or investment analysts. With experience and additional qualifications, they may progress to senior management roles within financial institutions.
Types of Companies: Financial services apprenticeships are offered by banks, insurance companies, investment firms, and financial advisory firms.
Why It's Popular: Financial services apprenticeships offer a pathway into a prestigious and financially rewarding industry, with opportunities for career advancement and professional development.
7. Hospitality and Catering Apprenticeships
Job Description: Hospitality and catering apprenticeships cover roles in hotels, restaurants, and catering businesses. Apprentices learn about food preparation, customer service, and hospitality management.
Training Programs: Apprenticeships in hospitality and catering combine practical training with theoretical study, covering topics such as food safety, menu planning, and event management. Apprentices may also undertake industry recognised qualifications such as the Hospitality Supervision and Leadership Diploma.
Salary and Qualifications: Salaries for hospitality and catering apprenticeships vary depending on the role, location, and employer. Qualifications obtained may include NVQs, diplomas in hospitality management, or higher-level apprenticeship certifications.
Career Progression: Graduates of hospitality and catering apprenticeships can pursue careers as chefs, restaurant managers, or hotel supervisors. With experience and additional qualifications, they may advance to senior management roles within the hospitality industry.
Types of Companies: Hospitality and catering apprenticeships are offered by hotels, restaurants, catering companies, event venues, and hospitality management companies.
Why It's Popular: Hospitality and catering apprenticeships provide hands-on experience in a vibrant and fast-paced industry, with opportunities for career progression and international mobility.
8. Retail and Sales Apprenticeships
Job Description: Retail and sales apprenticeships cover roles in retail stores, supermarkets, and sales departments. Apprentices learn about customer service, merchandising, and sales techniques.
Training Programs: Apprenticeships in retail and sales combine practical training with theoretical study, covering topics such as product knowledge, sales psychology, and customer relationship management. Apprentices may also undertake industry recognised qualifications such as the Retail Skills Certificate.
Salary and Qualifications: Salaries for retail and sales apprenticeships vary depending on the role, location, and employer. Qualifications obtained may include NVQs, diplomas in retail management, or higher-level apprenticeship certifications.
Career Progression: Graduates of retail and sales apprenticeships can pursue careers as store managers, sales representatives, or retail buyers. With experience and additional qualifications, they may advance to regional or national management roles within retail organisations.
Types of Companies: Retail and sales apprenticeships are offered by retail chains, supermarkets, department stores, and online retailers.
Why It's Popular: Retail and sales apprenticeships provide a pathway into a dynamic and customer-focused industry, with opportunities for career advancement and specialisation.
9. Creative and Digital Media Apprenticeships
Job Description: Creative and digital media apprenticeships cover roles in graphic design, video production, and digital content creation. Apprentices learn about creative techniques, multimedia software, and digital marketing strategies.
Training Programs: Apprenticeships in creative and digital media combine practical training with theoretical study, covering topics such as design principles, video editing, and social media marketing. Apprentices may also undertake industry recognised qualifications such as Adobe Certified Associate (ACA) exams.
Salary and Qualifications: Salaries for creative and digital media apprenticeships vary depending on the role, location, and employer. Qualifications obtained may include NVQs, diplomas in creative media production, or higher-level apprenticeship certifications.
Career Progression: Graduates of creative and digital media apprenticeships can pursue careers as graphic designers, multimedia specialists, or digital marketing coordinators. With experience and a strong portfolio, they may freelance or establish their own creative agencies.
Types of Companies: Creative and digital media apprenticeships are offered by advertising agencies, design studios, media production companies, and digital marketing agencies.
Why It's Popular: Creative and digital media apprenticeships provide an outlet for individuals with artistic talent and a passion for technology, offering opportunities for creative expression and career growth in a rapidly evolving industry.
10. Automotive Apprenticeships
Job Description: Automotive apprenticeships cover roles in vehicle maintenance, repair, and diagnostics. Apprentices learn about automotive systems, diagnostic tools, and customer service in a garage environment.
Training Programs: Apprenticeships in automotive combine practical training with theoretical study, covering topics such as engine mechanics, electrical systems, and vehicle inspection. Apprentices may also undertake industry recognised qualifications such as the Automotive Technician Accreditation (ATA) exams.
Salary and Qualifications: Salaries for automotive apprenticeships vary depending on the role, location, and employer. Qualifications obtained may include NVQs, diplomas in vehicle maintenance, or higher-level apprenticeship certifications.
Career Progression: Graduates of automotive apprenticeships can pursue careers as automotive technicians, diagnostic specialists, or workshop supervisors. With experience and additional qualifications, they may specialise in areas such as hybrid or electric vehicles, or advance to managerial roles within automotive service centres.
Types of Companies: Automotive apprenticeships are offered by car dealerships, independent garages, car and vehicle manufacturers, F1 & motorsport teams and automotive service providers.
Why It's Popular: Automotive apprenticeships offer hands-on experience in a technical and specialised field, with opportunities for career advancement and specialisation in an industry that continues to innovate and evolve.
11. Artificial Intelligence Apprenticeships
Job Description: Artificial Intelligence (AI) apprenticeships focus on developing skills in machine learning, data analysis, and AI technologies. Apprentices learn to design, implement, and evaluate AI solutions for various applications, from predictive analytics to natural language processing.
Training Programs: AI apprenticeships combine theoretical study with practical training in programming languages such as Python, data visualisation tools, and machine learning algorithms. Apprentices may also undertake certifications from platforms like Coursera or Udacity.
Salary and Qualifications: Salaries for AI apprenticeships vary depending on the level of experience and the employer. Qualifications obtained may include NVQs, diplomas in AI and machine learning, or higher-level apprenticeship certifications.
Career Progression: Graduates of AI apprenticeships can pursue roles as AI engineers, data scientists, or AI consultants. With experience and expertise, they may lead AI research projects, develop AI products, or contribute to groundbreaking innovations in the field.
Types of Companies: AI apprenticeships are offered by technology companies, research institutions, AI startups, and companies across industries embracing AI solutions.
Why It's Popular: The growing importance of AI technologies across industries has led to increased demand for skilled professionals. AI apprenticeships offer a direct pathway for individuals to gain expertise in this rapidly evolving field and contribute to transformative advancements in technology.
12. Plumbing Apprenticeships
Job Description: Plumbing apprenticeships train individuals in the installation, maintenance, and repair of plumbing systems in residential, commercial, and industrial settings. Apprentices learn about pipework, fittings, fixtures, and regulations governing plumbing installations.
Training Programs: Plumbing apprenticeships combine practical training with theoretical study, covering topics such as plumbing principles, pipe soldering, and plumbing codes and standards. Apprentices work alongside experienced plumbers, gaining hands-on experience in various plumbing tasks.
Salary and Qualifications: Salaries for plumbing apprenticeships vary depending on the level of experience and the employer. Qualifications obtained may include NVQs, diplomas in plumbing, or higher-level apprenticeship certifications.
Career Progression: Graduates of plumbing apprenticeships can pursue careers as licensed plumbers, plumbing contractors, or plumbing inspectors. With experience and additional qualifications, they may specialise in areas such as gas fitting, renewable energy systems, or fire protection systems.
Types of Companies: Plumbing apprenticeships are offered by plumbing contractors, construction firms, maintenance companies, and utilities providers.
Why It's Popular: Plumbing apprenticeships offer a practical pathway into a stable and essential trade, providing opportunities for skilled professionals to meet the ongoing demand for plumbing services in residential and commercial settings.
Apprenticeships in the UK provide valuable pathways for individuals to gain practical skills, earn qualifications, and embark on rewarding careers across a diverse range of industries. From engineering and healthcare to IT and creative media, apprenticeships offer opportunities for individuals to learn, grow, and contribute to their chosen fields. With the inclusion of emerging fields such as AI and traditional trades like plumbing, the apprenticeship landscape continues to evolve, reflecting the changing needs of industries and the aspirations of apprentices seeking to build successful careers.
Apprenticeship Levels Explained
Intermediate Apprenticeships are your entry level into the world of apprenticeships more commonly known as a Level 2 Apprenticeship. Level 2 apprenticeships offer an excellent route into further education post 16, as an alternative to staying on at school, whilst receiving on the job training and studying towards a nationally recognised qualification.
During your intermediate apprenticeship you will study part-time with a college or a training provider, 20% of your training, towards an NVQ Level 2 and knowledge based qualification such as a BTEC, together these qualifications are the equivalent to 5 GCSE's grades 9 - 4 (A* - C on the old grading system). You will also receive a Level 2 Functional Skills in Maths and English if you don't already have them.
An Intermediate Apprenticeship is great for learning work related skills as apposed to being given more responsibility. This level of training will make you work ready and train you in the hands on skills required to undertake the responsibility of the task and give you the employability skills you need to be successful.
Qualifying Criteria
There is no formal qualifying criteria for a Level 2 Intermediate Apprenticeship however some employers may ask for a minimum of 2 GCSE's to be able to join their apprenticeship programme.
Advanced Apprenticeships or commonly known as Level 3 Apprenticeships are the equivalent to doing 2 A-Levels and are the next level from an intermediate apprenticeship. Level 3 apprenticeships are great for you to start once you have completed your GCSE's and have attained the correct grades to be able to start at this level.
Starting at the advanced level even if you already have A-levels enables you to gain on the training, of which some employers prefer you to have before starting a Higher or Degree apprenticeship.
Just like an intermediate apprenticeship you will be required to spend at least 20% of your time studying with a college or training provider to be able to achieve the qualifications. On completion of you r apprenticeship you will achieve the equivalent of 2 A-Levels in the form of an NVQ Level 3 and a knowledge based qualifications such as a BTEC diploma.
Qualifying Criteria
To qualifying for a Level 3 advanced apprenticeship many employers ask for a minimum of 5 GCSE's which must include Maths and English, this is why an intermediate apprenticeships gives you these qualifications on completion. Although an advanced apprenticeships is the equivalent of 2 A-Levels some employers may add A-Levels as their requirement at this level also.
Find companies advertising advanced apprenticeship jobs on our website.
Higher Apprenticeships are your Levels 4 and 5 qualifications and enable you to study towards a HNC or HND respectively whilst at Level 5 you can also attain a foundation degree which is great if you want to continue in your studies towards a bachelors degree.
During your higher apprenticeship training you will be required to studying part-time with a training provider, college or university which along with your on the job training will enable you to train towards a Level 4 or 5 NVQ and BTEC diploma along with their respective HNC or HND qualification. Higher apprenticeships can take up to four years to complete.
As a higher apprentice you will be given a lot more responsibility which may include managing people or teams or even responsible for managing projects. You will be supported by your employer along side your mentors and tutors making sure to advise and guide you along the way during your apprenticeship programme.
Qualifying Criteria
To qualifying for a higher apprenticeship you will need to have achieved and completed at least a Level 3 Apprenticeship or have 5 GCSE's grades 9-4 which must include Maths and English and 2 A-Levels.
Find companies advertising higher apprenticeship jobs on our website.
Degree apprenticeships were introduced in September 2015 and have been receive with open arms both by employers and apprentices alike. Also known as Level 6 or 7 apprenticeships the degree level apprenticeship enables you to study towards a Bachelors or Masters degree.
You can start a degree apprenticeships straight after your advanced apprenticeship level or alternatively if you want to gain more on the job training before the Level 6 programme you can overlap from a higher apprenticeship programme. Many employers are now partnering with leading universities across the country to offer degree level apprenticeships to help advance your learning opportunities.
Just like studying at university a degree level apprenticeship takes between 3 to 6 years to complete you will achieve this by on the job training with your employer and training provider and then part-time study at the designated university for your apprenticeship course.
Qualifying Criteria
To qualifying for a degree apprenticeship you will need to have at least Level 3 qualifications of 2 A-Levels, NVQ and BTEC or have completely the advanced apprenticeship. Level 6 and 7 are also a natural progression from a higher apprenticeship.
Find companies advertising degree apprenticeship jobs on our website.
What is an apprenticeship?
Apprenticeships are a form of further education which offers on the job training for you to gain a nationally recognised qualification whilst studying part-time with an apprenticeship training provider, college or university through workshops or classroom training.
Apprenticeship training has to be delivered by a registered apprenticeship training provider which can also be an employer-provider, where the employer you are training through are on the register of training providers to be able to deliver their own training requirements. If an employer acts as an employer-provider they will usually employ a number of people such as Apprenticeship Assessors, Mentors and Managers to support you through your apprenticeship programme.
During your apprenticeship you will receive a salary and all the other benefits permanent employees receive. An apprenticeship job is only for a specified time as stipulated at the beginning of your apprenticeship training which can last anything from 12 months to 5 years.
To find our more about apprenticeships please refer to our What is an Apprenticeship? guide.
Why should you start an apprenticeship?
If you are considering your post 16 options you probably wouldn't have considered an apprenticeship a few years ago and would be struggling or worrying what to do when you leave school. It is a legal requirement for you to now stay in some form of further education until the age of 18 and you now have three options A-Levels, College or an Apprenticeship.
You can start an apprenticeship at the age of 16 through the Intermediate or Advanced level apprenticeship programmes across many industry sectors from Construction, Technology or even Marketing. There are no entry requirements for the intermediate apprenticeship, however you will need at least 5 GCSE's at grade 4 (previously C grade) or above to qualify for the advanced apprenticeship. On completion of the intermediate you will gain the qualifying criteria for a level 3.
The best reason for starting an apprenticeship is on completion of each level you will receive a nationally recognised qualification from an NVQ all the way up to a degree level apprenticeship such as a Bachelors or Masters.
How can you become an apprentice?
There are a number of ways to become an apprentice so we thought we would list them for you:
- Register with websites like ourselves, there are others available.
- Apprenticeship Job Fairs are great for meeting employers and training providers.
- Contact training providers in your area, a simple Google search "Training providers near me" will give you the information you need.
- Contact your local colleges or universities or visit their websites to see if they offer apprenticeship training.
- UCAS promote apprenticeship opportunities on their website on behalf of employers.
and finally......
- Do some research on apprenticeships and find a topic or industry that you would like to start an apprenticeship in and then research local companies in those sectors and visit their websites to see if they offer apprenticeship training and apply directly with them.