There are many apprenticeship options available to young people after they leave school, which can be very confusing. We've answered some common questions pupils, parents, carers and employers have about apprenticeships, with clear, honest answers to help you understand your options.
Quick answers to those burning questions
- Apprenticeships are paid jobs with training
- Your child can start from age 16
- Training is funded by employers and government
- Apprentices can progress to degree-level qualifications
- You will earn while gaining real work experience
- What is an apprenticeship?
An apprenticeship is a real paid job with structured training, where you earn a wage whilst working towards a nationally recognised qualification.
- What does being an apprentice involve?
As an apprentice, you are employed by an organisation and split your time between work and learning, leading to a recognised qualification from Level 2 up to degree level and beyond.
All apprentices receive a contract of employment, staff pay, and associated benefits, including:- Earning a salary
- Paid annual leave - at least 20 days per year, plus bank holidays
- Workplace benefits
Apprentices develop practical skills, workplace experience, and qualifications, all at the same time, making this a strong alternative to full-time college or university for many people.
- Are apprenticeships only in trades?
No - apprenticeships are no longer limited to traditional trades.
While they were once mainly associated with hands-on industries like construction and engineering, apprenticeships are now available across a wide range of sectors, including business, IT, healthcare, and professional services. Many programmes even allow learners to progress to degree-level qualifications.At Shrewsbury College, apprenticeships span diverse career areas such as:
- Accounting
- Building
- Business, Law and Economics
- Carpentry and Joinery
- Childcare
- Computing, IT & Digital
- Construction Design and Site Management
- Electrical
- Engineering
- Hair, Beauty & Therapies
- Hospitality & Catering
- Motor Vehicle
- Painting & Decorating
- Plumbing
- Property Maintenance
- Teaching
There's an option to suit most interests and career goals. If you're looking for a specific pathway, the Skills England website lists all approved apprenticeship programmes, known as Standards, helping you explore the full range available.
- Are apprentices treated like employees?
Yes. An apprenticeship is a real job with training. Apprentices earn a salary, work alongside other employees, and gain practical experience while studying towards a nationally recognised qualification. They are expected to meet the same workplace standards as other staff members while developing the skills, knowledge, and behaviours needed for their chosen career. You will be issued with a contract of employment, the same as any other employee.
- What age can you start an apprenticeship?
You can start an apprenticeship from age 16, after completing GCSEs, and there is no upper age limit, so apprenticeships are available at any stage of life.
- Can I do an apprenticeship instead of college?
Yes. In the UK, young people must stay in education or training until age 18, but this doesn't necessarily mean staying in school. After the age of 16, young people can choose how they continue learning, including:- Full-time education, such as school sixth form or college
- An apprenticeship
- Work combined with training
Becoming an apprentice is a fully recognised way to meet this requirement, allowing young people to earn while they learn and gain qualifications on the job.
- What are the entry requirements for an apprenticeship?
Apprenticeships are available to anyone aged 16 or over living in England. Entry requirements vary depending on the industry sector and job role, and full details can be found on the course webpages for each apprenticeship.
Please note that some apprenticeships at Shrewsbury College start at Level 3, and GCSE English and Maths at grade 4 (C) or above are essential entry requirements.
- What are the benefits of doing an apprenticeship?
There are many benefits to doing an apprenticeship. Alongside formal training, apprentices will gain valuable experience in the world of work, helping them build skills and knowledge that are essential for long-term career success.You will be in a real work environment, gaining first-hand experience with customers, colleagues, and the expectations of being part of a team. Apprenticeships also help you develop practical life skills, including:
- Managing your own income
- Building a daily routine
- Earning time off
- Developing professional relationships
- What progression opportunities do apprenticeships offer?
Apprenticeships provide excellent progression opportunities. Whether you want to continue studying or progress within a career, you can:- Move on to higher or degree-level apprenticeships
- Gain promotions within the workplace
- Increase long-term earning potential
Many apprentices see significant salary increases after completing their training. Those who complete higher-level apprenticeships may see lifetime earnings increase by up to £150,000.*
*Source: Amazing Apprenticeships.
- Is there any other financial support available for apprentices?
As apprentices are classed as full-time students, you can access a range of student discounts and travel savings to help reduce everyday costs. These include discount schemes such as the TOTUM discount card, and rail and coach travel discounts. Apprentices may also be eligible for further financial support, grants, and incentives depending on their individual circumstances, as outlined below.- Care Leaver Bursary: Apprentices aged 16 to 24 who have been in the care of their local authority may be eligible for a £3,000 bursary, often paid in instalments to support them.
- Access to Work: Apprentices with a mental or physical health condition can apply for an Access to Work grant to pay for special equipment, adaptations, or travel costs.
- Benefits & Tax Credits: Depending on personal circumstances, apprentices can claim benefits, including Universal Credit, to support low income.
- Travel and Housing Support: Some local authorities offer support for travel. Certain apprentices may also be eligible for council tax reductions or housing benefits.
- Employer Incentives: A £1,000 grant is available for employers who hire apprentices aged 16-18, or those aged 19-24 with an education, health and care (EHC) plan or who are care leavers. This is often used to help with travel or equipment costs.
For details on additional grants that may be available depending on your circumstances, visit Apprenticeship funding on GOV.UK.
- What does an apprentice get paid?
Apprentices are paid at least the minimum wage, although many employers choose to pay more.
Current minimum rates are:- £8 per hour - for apprentices aged under 18 or those in the first year of their apprenticeship
- £10.85 per hour - for those aged 18-20
- £12.71 per hour - for those aged 21 and over (National Living Wage)
Actual pay can vary depending on the industry, location, and level of the apprenticeship.
For more details on salaries, visit the government's Find an Apprenticeship website.
- How many hours a week does an apprentice work?
Apprentices divide their time between work and training. At Shrewsbury College, many apprenticeships include a regular college attendance day, typically one day per week, although this can vary depending on the programme. Apprentices are paid for their training time, including attendance at college.
- Do apprentices get holiday pay?
Yes. Apprentices are entitled to paid holiday as part of their employment. As apprentices are employees, you receive many of the same benefits as other members of staff, including paid annual leave. The amount of holiday will depend on your employer and employment contract.
- What levels of apprenticeships are available?
Apprenticeships are available at different levels, depending on your current skills, qualifications, and the industry you choose.
In some sectors, such as hairdressing, all applicants start at Level 2, regardless of previous qualifications. In others, apprentices may start at Level 3, which usually requires relevant qualifications or experience.- Level 2 (Intermediate) - equivalent to GCSEs
- Level 3 (Advanced) - equivalent to A Levels
- Level 4-5 (Higher) - equivalent to a foundation degree
- Level 6-7 (Degree) - equivalent to a bachelor's or master's degree
As apprentices progress through the levels, they gain more advanced skills, knowledge, and responsibility in the workplace.
- How is training delivered during an apprenticeship?
Apprenticeships combine on-the-job training in the workplace with at least 20% off-the-job training completed during normal working hours. Off-the-job learning often includes a weekly day at college, as well as workplace shadowing, supervised practical training, independent study, reading, and research.All training time is paid, so attending college or provider sessions is just as important as attending work. Employers receive regular updates on attendance and progress to help them support the apprentice's development. If an apprentice has not yet achieved GCSE grade 4 in English or maths, they will also take part in short sessions at college to build these essential skills.
- How is the apprenticeship assessed?
You are assessed through ongoing apprenticeship assessments and a final independent End Point Assessment (EPA). Each apprentice has a named assessor who sets targets and carries out regular progress reviews. Throughout the programme, apprentices complete:- A variety of practical assessments and observations in the workplace
- Discussions that confirm the knowledge that has been gained
- Assignments
- Exams in some subject areas
At the end of the apprenticeship, an external examiner conducts the EPA to assess the apprentice's knowledge, skills, and behaviours. Apprentices receive a final grade of Pass, Merit, or Distinction based on their overall competence.
- Do all apprenticeships start in September at Shrewsbury College?
No. Employers recruit apprentices all year round, although the summer is a particularly busy time for vacancies. While many of our programmes follow term dates, it is important that, if you are under the age of 18, you enrol on a full-time course if you do not yet have an employer lined up for September. This ensures you continue learning and can transfer onto an apprenticeship later in the term without needing to catch up on missed work.
- What happens at the end of the apprenticeship?
In some sectors, there are opportunities to progress to a higher-level apprenticeship with the same or a different employer, or to secure a permanent role at the end of the programme. Many employers use apprenticeships as a way of recruiting and developing future members of their workforce.
- Can I go to university after an apprenticeship?
Yes. Apprenticeships can provide a route into higher education. There are apprenticeship programmes available up to degree level, and many apprentices choose to continue their learning by progressing onto a higher-level apprenticeship or further study once they have completed their programme. Apprenticeships allow young people to gain valuable workplace experience and qualifications while keeping future study options open.
- How long does it take to achieve an apprenticeship?
An apprenticeship takes anything from eight months to four years. Each apprenticeship has an agreed length of study and completion. This will depend on the level as well as previous experience and qualifications.
- What will an apprenticeship cost?
The cost of apprenticeship training is usually funded by the government and the employer, so there are no tuition fees for the apprentice. However, apprentices are normally responsible for their own travel costs when attending work and any college-based training.
- How do you apply for an apprenticeship?
There are thousands of apprenticeship vacancies available across England in a wide range of industries and career sectors. Visit the Government's apprenticeship website to search for opportunities by job role, apprenticeship level, or location.When you find a vacancy that interests you, you can create an account and follow the simple step-by-step application process online. For practical advice and guidance on applying for apprenticeships, visit our YouTube channel, which includes helpful tips and videos about apprenticeships.
- I am a parent/guardian - how can I help my young person find an apprenticeship?
Applying for apprenticeships can take time and may involve setbacks, so your encouragement and support can make a real difference. Help your young person by proofreading applications and CVs, practising interview questions, and building their confidence to talk positively about their skills, experiences, and ambitions.Whilst it may be tempting to contact employers or training providers on their behalf, encouraging them to communicate directly helps them develop the independence and professionalism employers value. Managing emails, answering phone calls from unknown numbers, and checking voicemails are also important workplace skills that will help them transition successfully into employment.
- What makes a good apprenticeship opportunity?
Look out for a varied job role, with staff benefits, extra training opportunities, and progression opportunities. All of these show the employer is looking to invest in the apprentice to develop them personally and professionally.
- I am a parent/guardian - what happens if my young person doesn't have an employer?
If your young person has not yet found an apprenticeship employer, they should still complete an application. We will process their application and invite them to interview for a full-time course in the relevant subject area, ensuring they can continue their learning and development while exploring apprenticeship opportunities.Many employers prefer to recruit candidates recommended by the college, and it is straightforward to move from a full-time course onto an apprenticeship once an employer has been secured. This transfer can take place at any point during the academic year.
It is also important to encourage your young person to be proactive in their job search. Speaking to friends, family members, teachers, and other contacts can help uncover opportunities that may not be widely advertised. A well-prepared CV and approaching employers directly can also be very effective, demonstrating enthusiasm, initiative, and a genuine interest in the industry.
- I am a parent/guardian - what can I do if my child has an issue in the workplace?
All apprentices receive details of our Safeguarding Team and how to access support through the MySC app. Any safeguarding concerns or urgent issues should be reported immediately. For day-to-day workplace concerns, apprentices should speak to their assessor or contact the college for advice and support.We encourage apprentices and employers to address issues directly wherever possible, as open communication is an important part of working life. However, the college is always available to provide guidance, mediate where appropriate, and help resolve concerns if further support is needed.
Throughout the apprenticeship, regular review meetings take place between the apprentice, their employer and their assessor. These meetings are used to monitor progress, celebrate achievements, and identify and address any concerns at an early stage, helping to ensure the apprenticeship remains a positive and successful experience for everyone involved.
- I am a parent/guardian - what if my child has an EHCP?
Young people with an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP), learning difficulty, or disability can successfully complete an apprenticeship and may be entitled to additional support throughout their training.The minimum English and maths requirements needed to complete an apprenticeship may be adjusted for some apprentices with a learning difficulty or disability, allowing them to work towards qualifications at a level that is appropriate for their abilities.
A Disability Confident Employer will generally offer an interview to any applicant who declares they have a disability and meets the minimum criteria as defined by the employer.
For more details, visit Disability Confident on GOV.UK. We also offer inclusive apprenticeships. For more information, email
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Get in touch
For more information on any aspect of apprenticeships, please contact us on 01743 653 444 or