What is an apprenticeship?
An apprenticeship is simply defined as a job with training but is only recognised as being a formal apprenticeship if aligned to an apprenticeship standard (in England).
An apprenticeship consists of three core elements:
- A paid job - provided by an employer, which represents roughly 80% of an apprenticeship
- Off the job training - supported by a Registered Apprenticeship Training Provider. This typically represents a minimum of 20% of the apprenticeship
- Functional Skills (English and Maths) - this only applies where apprentices do not hold a prior qualification in the required subject (usually GCSE)
At the end of an apprenticeship there is a formal assessment which leads to a nationally recognised qualification.
Who can apply?
An apprentice must be aged 16 or over and have completed their final GCSE year at school before starting an apprenticeship. There is no maximum age limit.
How long does an apprenticeship last?
An apprenticeship will last at least 12 months, but the recommended duration is determined by the apprenticeship Standard so this can vary from 12 months to 6 years, sometimes longer!
What are Apprenticeship levels?
Different apprenticeship levels equate to different qualification levels. An apprenticeship can start at any level, but some may require:
- previous qualifications such as English or maths GCSEs
- additional training in English or maths to ensure the apprentice is at the right level
The different apprenticeship levels are:
- Level 2, Intermediate (GCSE equivalent)
- Level 3, Advanced (A level equivalent)
- Levels 4, 5, 6 and 7, Higher (Foundation degree and above equivalent)
- Levels 6 and 7, Degree (Bachelor's or master's degree)
Does it cost anything?
No, there are no student loans or tuition fees as apprenticeships are funded by the government and the employer.
Apprentices will need to cover the cost of their day-to-day expenses such as food and travel, but many employers offer a competitive salary - see below for guidance on this.
If the apprentice is aged 16 - 24 and a care leaver, they will receive a £1000 bursary payment to support the first year of their apprenticeship.
How much does an apprentice earn?
This will depend on the industry, location and the level of apprenticeship.
If the apprentice is aged 16 - 18 or in the first year of their apprenticeship, they are entitled to the apprentice rate as a minimum, but many employers will offer a competitive salary.
If the apprentice is aged 19+ or has completed the first year of the apprenticeship, they are entitled to the National Minimum Wage, but many employers will offer a competitive salary.
How do I find an apprenticeship?
All accredited apprenticeship vacancies can be found here.
By creating an account, you can sign up to be alerted of opportunities in your area of interest and desired location.
You can also use this website to browse what types of apprenticeships are available across different sectors.
Check out our page with links to various apprenticeship resources in the different creative industry sub sectors.
The information on this page has been taken from the Manager's Guide to Apprenticeships, published by the former sector skills council, Creative & Cultural Skills in 2021 and apprenticeships.gov.uk.