It’s a real job, with hands-on experience, a salary and the chance to train while you work. You’re treated just like all the other employees, with a contract of employment and holiday leave.
If you’re 16 or over, you can become an apprentice as long as you spend at least 50% of your working hours in England – for the duration of the apprenticeship and you are not in full-time education.
If you live in Scotland, Wales, or Northern Ireland, check out your apprenticeship options.
When you’re an apprentice:
- you get paid and train at the same time, with at least 20% of your time spent in off the job training, often at a college, university or with a training provider
- You train to be fully competent in Your chosen occupation
- You’re on a career path – with lots of future potential for you