How Do Apprenticeships Work?
Thinking of becoming an apprentice? Here’s everything you need to before you start your apprenticeship journey.
The benefits of becoming an apprentice
Whether you’re a school leaver, or looking for a career change, an apprenticeship is an opportunity to gain new skills, learn on the job and get paid for it.
1. Get paid to learn
Tech apprenticeships are a real game changer. Dodge huge university debts and get paid to learn-on-the-job and develop the skills you need to kickstart your career.
Retraining as an apprentice? You’ll keep your job and get your training completely free!
2. Level up your career
With an apprenticeship, you could start at a Level 3 Apprenticeship and work your way up to a recognised Bachelor’s or Master’s Degree. Completely debt free. And in Scotland, you'll earn a nationally-recognised SCQF 6 or 8 qualification.
3. Gain in-demand skills
Over the past 10 years, QA has started more than 25,000 careers – with apprenticeships. We teach you the skills that employers need most, so you’ll be in demand to work anywhere. The result? 90% of our apprentices go straight into full-time jobs after completing.
4. Learn on-the-job
Apprenticeships allow you to get your foot in the door with a great company and build a portfolio of real work in a real working environment. On-the-job experience is essential and nearly all employers want it. With an apprenticeship, you’ll get it straight away.
5. Get plenty of support
A whole team is behind you. Skill coach. Tutors. Learner Services team. Don't forget your manager. And other apprentices. After your apprenticeship, join our alumni community (the first in the UK). Build your network, get inspired and have fun as you progress your career.
Hear From Our Apprentices
Nodiya
Data Analyst apprentice with NatWest
Charlotte
Chartered Management Degree apprentice with Visa
Apprenticeship Levels Explained
There are several different levels when it comes to apprenticeships. You’ll need different requirements for each level, and you don’t necessarily need to start at the lowest level if you have the required qualifications.
Level 3 Apprenticeships
Level 3 Apprenticeships, also known as Advanced Apprenticeships, are considered to be equivalent to 2 A Levels. You’ll need 5 GCSE’s at Grade C/4 or above, 2 of which must be Maths and English at Grade D/E or above to be considered.
Level 3 Apprenticeships are the first step on your apprenticeship journey to more advanced courses and even a degree or masters.
Level 4 Apprenticeships
The second step on the Apprenticeship ladder is level 4. These are equivalent to the first year of an undergraduate degree.
To be considered for a Level 4 apprenticeship, you’ll need a Level 3 Apprenticeship, an A-Level, or a BTEC Diploma in a STEM subject.
Level 5/6 Apprenticeships
Level 5 and 6 Apprenticeships are called Higher Apprenticeships, or Degree Apprenticeships and are equivalent of a full degree.
These levels are the last step on the ladder before you reach Masters level.
Level 7 Apprenticeships
Level 7 is the highest level you can reach as an apprentice and is equal to a Master’s Degree.
Apprenticeship FAQs
How much do apprentices get paid?
There is a minimum wage for apprentices in the UK, but the specific wage available for each apprenticeship job can be found on our apprenticeship vacancy pages.
How are apprenticeships funded?
Apprenticeships are funded by businesses and government schemes, such as the Apprenticeship Levy, which is dedicated funding for businesses that are looking to employ an apprentice.
Is an apprenticeship full-time education?
Apprenticeships are classified as full-time education, however the majority of this education will be spent on-the-job. Apprentices benefit from the best of both worlds, with real-life experience and expert classroom learning.
What qualifications do I need to get an apprenticeship?
The qualifications you need depend on the level of apprenticeship that you are applying for. A Level 3 Apprenticeship for example, requires a certain number of GSCE’s, while a Level 7 Masters Apprenticeship will require considerably more experience. View each apprenticeship listing to see what is required before you apply.
Do apprentices get paid holiday?
Yes, apprentices are entitled to paid holiday, just like other salaried employees. The amount of holiday can vary depending on the training provider and employer.
Who will support me on my apprenticeship?
If you choose a QA apprenticeship, you’ll benefit from a wide support network. This includes:
- Skills coach - When you start, you’ll be introduced to your skills coach. They’ll support you through your whole apprenticeship. They’ll work with you and your manager to keep you on track through the course. And at the end, they’ll help you prepare for your final assessment (called an end-point assessment or EPA). They’re your go to, for anything you need (apprenticeship-wise, obviously). They’ll check in regularly to make sure you’re doing well, and are on track for success.
- Classroom tutors - Your tutors are experts. They’ll teach you technical skills at one of our excellent training centres. Our tutors don’t just know the theory – oh no, they’re not just bookworms. They’ve got industry experience too. Ask them anything. They’re here to help. And, don’t worry, just because it’s in the classroom, it won’t be like going back to school. They’ll mix up the workshops with lectures, discussions, activities and practical mock assessments.
- Line manager - Your line manager at work will support you too. They’ll give you the right projects so you can use your new skills straight away on the job.
Learning services team – There’s a lot going on in your life. Building your career. Learning new skills. But what about your personal life too? QA’s Learner Services team (Learner.Services@qa.com or 01753 898482) are here to support you. Whatever. Whenever. We really care about you and want you to have a great experience on your apprenticeship.
What do Learner Services do? Help with loads of things, like:
- Workplace issues – Support if you have any issues at work. Like, a contract or payment issue, workplace dispute, travel costs, or anything else.
- Careers advice – Don’t know what to do next? We can talk about career options, progression opportunities, help with your CV, extra training and more.
- Finance – Stressed about finance? Let’s talk. There’s financial and housing support (for those who really need it).
- Personal and emotional support – Life has ups and downs. Get advice and a listening ear when life throws you a curveball. It could be financial issues, deadline extension requests, grief or an emotional struggle. We’ll be there for you.
- Additional learning needs – We help with hardware, software, accommodation and support if you have additional learning needs or a disability.
- Extra activities – Want to do more? There’s loads you can do to build your confidence. Fun extra activities like events, blogging, feedback days or mentoring other apprentices. Get involved.
- Safeguarding - We take your safety and welfare very seriously. QA’s safeguarding officer is specially trained to guard your safety. Contact safeguarding@qa.comor call 07808 050273 right away if you are at risk of any harm or if you’re worried that someone else might be. Harm could include abuse, bullying, harassment, self-harm, injury, homelessness or extremism.