Apprenticeship FAQs

If you're looking at training for a new career or just considering your options, you may be considering an apprenticeship.

In this article, we address some of the more frequently asked questions about apprenticeships and how we can help you if you are considering a role in the trades. 

Apprenticeship FAQs

We've collected apprenticeship FAQs, and answered them using our expertise. If you have any questions about apprenticeships, just click on a question below or scroll down to view all answers.

• What is an apprenticeship?
• How much does an apprentice earn?
• Do I need a GCSE for an apprenticeship?
• What is the minimum age for an apprenticeship?
• Are apprenticeships competitive?

What is an apprenticeship? 

An apprenticeship is an alternative way of gaining qualifications in an industry. Apprenticeships offer a route into a trade or industry whilst earning a wage, meaning you would gain your qualifications ‘on the job’. 

Similarly to an apprenticeship, Access’ Earn While You Learn route offers you an opportunity to get paid whilst you learn your trade. 

How much does an apprentice earn? 

An apprentice in the UK earns a minimum of £6.40 per hour, but can earn more. This is a frequently asked question by people interested in apprenticeships, as people can worry that they won't be able to support themselves on an apprenticeship parody. Apprenticeship wages can vary depending on the role, your employer, and the industry you are training in.

With a traditional apprenticeship you may stay on this wage for the duration of your training. Alternative training routes, like "Earn While You Learn" can offer you a more liveable wage of up to £27,000 per year. 

Do I need a GCSE for an apprenticeship? 

You don’t need necessarily need GCSEs for a traditional apprenticeship, however, employers may ask for GCSEs as a minimum requirement. It will vary between employers and businesses. This is an apprenticeship FAQ as people are worried they won't be qualified for an apprenticeship However, with an Access Training Apprenticeship, there are no prerequisites or qualifications needed when you start. 

What is the minimum age for an apprenticeship? 

Typically people undertake apprenticeships after secondary school but there is no minimum or maximum age. Adult apprenticeships are becoming increasingly more popular as they offer an option for people to change careers and take on something new. 

Are apprenticeships competitive? 

Traditional apprenticeships can be competitive as lots of people want to earn whilst they learn a skill, meaning that there may be less roles available and opportunities to train. There are alternative ways to gain qualifications outside of an apprenticeship though, and it is always worth exploring all the options before making a decision on your future career. 

Any More Questions?

These are some of the most frequently asked questions about apprenticeships, but if you have any other questions then we would be happy to help! We can answer any questions you might have about apprenticeships, so don't hesitate if you are worried your question might be stupid. Simply contact us here!

Apprenticeships - Earn While You Learn

Now that we've answered these apprenticeship FAQs, are you ready to start your own apprenticeship? Access offers a different approach to traditional apprenticeships, because our students can earn between £25,000 - £28,000 per year as a labourer whilst gaining their qualifications in the electrical, gas or plumbing trades. 

By undertaking an Access Apprenticeship, students could gain their qualifications faster than a traditional apprenticeships and earn a competitive wage. There is no previous requirements when it comes to many of our qualifications or requirements, meaning it is perfect for anyone looking to make a start with an accessible apprenticeship.

For more information on our Earn While You Learn Apprenticeship route into the trades, get in touch with our course advisors today.