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Apprenticeship FAQs

Plain-English answers to the questions UK young people, parents and career-changers most ask about apprenticeships.

What is an apprenticeship?

An apprenticeship is a paid job in the UK where you train and study at the same time. You earn a real wage from day one, gain a nationally recognised qualification, and get on-the-job experience — typically over 1 to 4 years depending on the level.

How do apprenticeships work?

You're employed full-time by an employer and spend at least 20% of your time training — usually one day a week at a college, training provider or online. You're paid for both the work and the training. At the end you have a qualification, real experience and (very often) a permanent job offer.

How do I find apprenticeships near me?

Sign up to Shine for free, tell us your postcode and how far you'll travel, and we match you to live UK apprenticeships in your area — across engineering, construction, manufacturing, digital, healthcare, business and more. Updated daily.

How do I apply for an apprenticeship?

1) Pick a sector that fits your strengths (Shine's free quiz helps). 2) Filter live vacancies by location and level. 3) Apply directly through Shine — most employers reply within 2 weeks. You don't need a CV first; we'll help you build one from the quiz results.

How do I get an apprenticeship with no experience?

Most Level 2 and Level 3 apprenticeships are designed for people with no work experience — that's the whole point. Employers care more about attitude, reliability and interest in the sector than a CV. Shine matches you on strengths, so you'll see roles where you have a realistic shot.

What is an apprenticeship wage?

The UK apprentice minimum wage (April 2024) is £6.40/hour for apprentices under 19, or anyone in the first year of their apprenticeship. After year one, 19+ apprentices get the full age-based minimum wage. Many employers — especially in engineering, construction and digital — pay significantly more.

What is a Level 2 / 3 / 4 / 5 / 6 apprenticeship equivalent to?

Level 2 (Intermediate) = GCSE grades 4–9. Level 3 (Advanced) = A-levels. Level 4 & 5 (Higher) = foundation degree / HNC / HND. Level 6 & 7 (Degree apprenticeship) = bachelor's or master's degree. You can start at any level if you meet the entry requirements.

Do I need GCSEs to start an apprenticeship?

Most Level 2 apprenticeships ask for some GCSEs (often maths and English at grade 3+), but many employers will accept you on your strengths and motivation, and let you complete English/maths during the apprenticeship. Higher and degree apprenticeships usually need A-levels or equivalent.

Can you do an apprenticeship if you already have a degree?

Yes. You can do an apprenticeship at any age and at any level, including if you already have a degree — as long as the apprenticeship teaches substantially new skills. Career changers often use Level 4–6 apprenticeships to retrain into engineering, construction, digital or skilled trades.

Is an apprenticeship classed as full-time education?

An apprenticeship is full-time paid employment with structured training, not full-time education. For under-18s it counts as meeting the legal duty to be in education, employment or training until age 18. Child Benefit usually stops once a young person starts an apprenticeship.

What's the difference between an apprenticeship and university?

University: you pay tuition fees, study full-time, get a degree. Apprenticeship: an employer pays you a wage AND pays for your training — you finish debt-free with real experience and (for degree apprenticeships) the same qualification. Both are valid routes; the right one depends on the career you're aiming at.

What apprenticeships are there in engineering, construction and manufacturing?

Shine specialises in skills-short UK sectors. Common roles include: mechanical, electrical, civil and software engineering apprenticeships; bricklaying, carpentry, plumbing, electrical and site management apprenticeships in construction; CNC, maintenance, quality, welding and production apprenticeships in manufacturing.