National Apprenticeship Week
National Apprenticeship Week brings together the entire apprenticeship community to celebrate everything that is amazing about apprenticeships.
Discover top tips on how to get involved, inspirational resources and some key events.
View The Apprentice Story film to discover more about the exciting world of Apprenticeships.
Click here for more information
An introduction to Apprenticeships 2023
What is an apprenticeship?
An apprenticeship is a skilled job with training. Every apprentice is guaranteed a minimum wage linked to their age. They're available at all academic levels - whether you're leaving school without GCSEs or completing your A-levels. There are apprenticeships in industries like engineering, health and accountancy - plus a host of careers you'd never think of. And 9 in 10 apprentices stay in work after completing their course.
Higher Apprenticeships
A higher apprenticeships is your ticket to a high-skilled job. You'll usually need at least 2 A-levels to start one, and you'll come out with qualifications equivalent to a foundation degree or higher - with any tuition fees paid by your employer! Higher apprentices can earn between £300-500 per week (although you may start lower). You could train to be a solicitor or a lab scientist, and even learn how to design sweets with a confectionery apprenticeship!
Degree Apprenticeship
Degree apprenticeships guarantee you a university degree, as well as on-the-job training for a high-skilled job. You'll spend 30 hours a week learning from experienced colleagues at work, and the equivalent of one day studying towards a bachelor's or master's degree at uni or college. It gives you the kudos and academic grounding of a degree along with sought-after employability skills employers say graduates don't have. And 8 out of 10 parents think it's better than an Oxbridge degree!
Should I apply for an Apprenticeship or University?
Today, apprenticeships offer a route into high-skilled jobs that you had to go to uni to train for in the past. If you know what career path you want to follow, an apprenticeship could get you there without the fees - while enabling you to develop employability skills too. University is essential for certain careers and great for those with passionate academic interests. Carefully consider the pros and cons of both university and apprenticeships before making your decision.
Depending on the apprenticeship offered, you can earn money while being trained on the job AND get qualifications including a degree, A-levels, NVQs, etc.
You don't need to be a tradesman if you don't want to, there are many different types of apprenticeship.
There are more apprenticeships available now than ever before.
The apprenticeship website is huge as it's for apprentices, employers, parents, colleges and more, so here are some sections you might be interested in if you just want a quick look:
Types of apprenticeship
Types of apprenticeships (industry sectors)
(If there are no current vacancies, remember to register and set up an email alert)
Videos & Pics
Videos of interviews etc. & images in the media gallery
Search for an apprenticeship
Search for an apprenticeship in the local area by searching for Apprenticeship / East Sussex
Apprenticeships on Twitter
Follow @Apprenticeships on Twitter
New! - Local apprenticeships website
Apprenticeships in Sussex website
Follow @SussexVacancies on Twitter
Frequently Asked Questions
The following PDF document from Connexions 360 contains a huge amount of information about apprenticeships including (and much more!):
- What are apprenticeships?,
- Who can be an apprentice?
- Entry requirements?
- How much do apprentices get paid?
- Types and levels of apprenticeships available
- How long is Apprenticeship?
- Benefits of being on an Apprenticeship
- Career progression
- Apprenticeship Vacancies, an online service & other sources of Apprenticeship
- Vacancies
- Finding the right Training Provider
- Tips for young people wanting to apply for an Apprenticeship, preparing for interviews & Financial Support
- Useful Information, Materials and Resources including National case studies by sector, YouTube& My Future Sussex website