Pay and Progression

Earn while your Learn

Apprentices do real jobs for real employers. So you’re paid while you learn. If you are entering work for the first time, you will start earning from day one of your Apprenticeship.

There is no set rate of pay for apprentices, however all employed apprentices must receive a wage of no less than £2.60 per hour. However the average wage per week for an apprentice is now around £170 and in some job roles around £210 per week.

As your skills develop, your pay will increase accordingly. You may also get additional money for essential books, clothing or equipment, or to help you with a disability. As an apprentice, you will also receive the same benefits as other employees such as pension contributions, subsidised canteen and leisure facilities.

Finally, research shows that apprentices earn, on average, over £100,000 more throughout their lifetime than other employees.

Progression

Apprenticeships can be demanding but they are very rewarding. Because Apprenticeships train you in the skills employers want, they give you choices in your career.

Your career doesn’t have to stop at the Intermediate, Advanced or Higher Level Apprenticeship, if you want to go on to University you will find that many institutes of Higher Education value your skills and knowledge and will happily offer you a place on a Foundation Degree or other higher level qualifications.

What Next?

There is a high demand for Apprenticeships, so competition to get a place can be quite high.

Apprenticeships are a great opportunity, but may not be suitable for everyone. Apprenticeships can be demanding, but very rewarding. To get an Apprenticeship you will have to show that you are serious, committed and aware of your responsibilities to both yourself and the company who would employ you. To do well in your Apprenticeship, you need to be focused on the career you want and you need to be prepared to work hard to get it.

If you think that an Apprenticeship is for you, use this website to look up the Apprenticeship Providers and Apprenticeship opportunities available in your area. Local Apprenticeship providers work with a wide range of employers investing in Apprenticeships. You may want to discuss Apprenticeships with your parents/carers or family to see what they think. Remember for more information you can also ask your Personal Advisor in school, visit your local Connexions Centre, or ring the National Apprenticeship Service on 08000 150600.