An apprenticeship is a real job where you earn a wage while gaining valuable skills, experience, and qualifications. Apprenticeships are available in a wide range of sectors, including healthcare, business administration, construction, digital and IT, customer service, education, engineering, and many more.
A common myth is that apprenticeships are only for young people leaving school. In reality, apprenticeships are available to adults of all ages and can be an excellent option if you’re looking to upskill, retrain, change careers, or return to work.
What Is an Apprenticeship?
As an apprentice, you will:
- Be employed and earn a wage
- Gain workplace experience
- Learn from experienced colleagues
- Work towards a recognised qualification
- Spend part of your working time completing training and study
Most apprentices spend around 80% of their time working and 20% completing training.
Why Choose an Apprenticeship?
Apprenticeships can help you:
- Gain practical work experience
- Develop industry-specific skills
- Earn money while learning
- Achieve recognised qualifications
- Increase your confidence
- Progress into further training, higher-level apprenticeships, or permanent employment
Many learners find apprenticeships appealing because they combine learning with real-world experience.
Apprenticeships Are Not Just for School Leavers
If you are:
- Over 25
- Looking for a career change
- Returning to work
- Already employed and looking to develop new skills
- Looking to enter a new sector
an apprenticeship may still be a suitable option for you. There is no general upper age limit for apprenticeships in England. Many adults use apprenticeships to gain qualifications, move into a new career, or build on existing skills.
Apprenticeship Levels Explained
Level 2 (Intermediate)
- Equivalent to GCSE level.
Level 3 (Advanced)
- Equivalent to A Levels.
Level 4 and 5 (Higher)
- Equivalent to a Higher National Certificate (HNC), Higher National Diploma (HND), or foundation degree.
Level 6 and 7 (Degree Apprenticeships)
- Equivalent to a bachelor’s or master’s degree.
There are apprenticeship opportunities at a range of levels depending on your qualifications and experience.
Popular Apprenticeship Sectors
Many of the sectors highlighted in our Careers and Progression resource pack apprenticeship pathways.
These include:
Health and Social Care
- Healthcare Support Worker
- Nursing Associate
- Adult Care Worker
- Pharmacy Technician
Business and Administration
- Business Administrator
- Customer Service Practitioner
- HR Support
Digital and IT
- IT Support Technician
- Data Technician
- Cyber Security Technician
- Digital Marketing
Construction
- Electrician
- Carpenter
- Bricklayer
- Plumbing Apprentice
Green Careers
- Environmental Technician
- Sustainability Support Roles
- Renewable Energy Apprenticeships
How to Find an Apprenticeship
There are several excellent websites where you can search for apprenticeship vacancies.
GOV.UK Find an Apprenticeship
- The official government website for apprenticeship vacancies across England.
https://www.findapprenticeship.service.gov.uk/
UCAS Apprenticeships
- Search apprenticeship opportunities alongside university and higher education pathways.
https://www.ucas.com/apprenticeships
National Careers Service
- Explore apprenticeship options, career profiles, and speak to a careers adviser.
https://nationalcareers.service.gov.uk/
WMJobs Apprenticeship Hub
- Apprenticeship opportunities across local authorities and public sector organisations in the West Midlands.
https://www.wmjobs.co.uk/sector/ApprenticeshipHub/
Top Tips for Applying
Tailor Your Application
Use the job description to identify the skills the employer is looking for and give examples that demonstrate them.
Highlight Transferable Skills
Skills gained through:
- Previous jobs
- Volunteering
- Caring responsibilities
- College courses
- Community activities
can all strengthen an apprenticeship application.
Show a Willingness to Learn
Employers understand that apprentices are still developing their skills. A positive attitude and commitment to learning can be just as important as experience.
Check Your CV
Before applying, make sure your CV is up to date and tailored to the apprenticeship you’re applying for.
Frequently Asked Questions
Am I too old for an apprenticeship?
- No. Apprenticeships are available to adults of all ages and are commonly used by people who are retraining or changing careers.
Will I be paid?
- Yes. Apprentices are employees and receive a wage.
Can I do an apprenticeship if I already have qualifications?
- Often, yes. Having previous qualifications does not automatically prevent you from completing an apprenticeship, particularly if you’re moving into a new sector or developing new skills.
Can I do an apprenticeship if I’m changing careers?
- Absolutely. Many adults use apprenticeships as a route into completely different sectors.
Do I need previous experience?
- Not always. Many apprenticeships are designed for beginners, although some higher-level programmes may have specific entry requirements.
Can I apply while studying at Fircroft?
- Yes. Apprenticeships can be an excellent progression route when you complete your course.
Need More Support?
If you would like advice about:
- Apprenticeships
- Career changes
- Reviewing apprenticeship vacancies
- CV writing
- Application forms
- Interview preparation
you can contact our Careers and Progression Coordinator for one-to-one support.
Email: robyn.dawes@fircroft.ac.uk
Phone: 07984 444750
