Banking Apprenticeships

What are banking apprenticeships?

Banking apprenticeships offer you an exciting path into the banking industry if you’re age 16 or older.

You'll work full-time at a bank while studying for professional qualifications. You'll earn a salary, gain hands-on experience, and build valuable skills that employers want - all at the same time.

The best part? You have options.

Whilst university is one way into a career in banking, apprenticeships offer an exciting alternative. Some higher-level programs even allow you to earn and learn while working towards a degree.

Over a length spanning from 12 months to five years - depending on your entry level - your time will be split between:

• Hands-on work experience in a real banking role

• Study sessions on-site or at a college, university or training provider 

• Career skills training.

Every bank structures its apprenticeship program differently, focusing on providing the skills needed to succeed in their company.

Some larger banks even have their own training centres where you'll learn from industry experts.

At the end of your apprenticeship, you’ll have a fantastic addition to your CV to continue your journey up the banking career ladder.

What types of banking apprenticeships are there?

Whether you’d like to become a credit controller or a professional economist, there’s a wide range of banking apprenticeships available in the UK, including;

Level 2 Apprenticeships (age 16+)

• Financial Services Customer Advisor

• Investment Operations Administrator

• Credit Controller/Collector

Level 3 Apprenticeships (age 16+)

• Compliance/Risk Officer

• Mortgage Advisor

• Senior Financial Services Customer Adviser

Level 4/5 Higher Apprenticeships (age 18+)

• Financial Advisor

• Investment Operations Specialist

• Actuarial Technician

Level 6/7 Degree Apprenticeships (age 18+)

• Banking Relationship Manager

• Financial Services Professional

• Professional Economist

Did you know you could get a banking degree without the £40,000 student debt? Yup, degree apprenticeships are popular and for good reason too. Read more about them.

Here’s what this apprentice had to say about their time at NatWest:

What GCSEs or A-Levels do you need for a banking apprenticeship?

Every level of apprenticeship has a different entry requirement. We’ve listed these below.

A good thing to know is that if you gain a Level 2 apprenticeship from one banking employer, you could use this to apply for a Level 3 apprenticeship at another.

How much do banking apprentices earn?

You'll get paid for your work hours and all your training sessions, including any extra courses you need, like maths and english. Your starting salary depends on your apprenticeship level, but don't worry - you're always guaranteed at least the National Minimum Wage.

Here’s what you could could typically expect to earn as a banking apprentice

Remember, every company sets their own apprenticeship salaries, so use these as a guide. The great news? While some companies might pay less or match these ranges, plenty offer even better pay! It's 200% worth having a look around to see what's available.

Pro tip: Always check the most recent job listings for current salary information - banks update their apprenticeship packages regularly!

How to apply for a banking apprenticeship

Most employers hire apprentices between February and April, but opportunities pop up all year round. You can apply at 15 as long as you'll be 16 by the time you’re expected to start.

Get your CV job-ready

Your apprenticeship CV and cover letter are your time to shine! Share your hobbies, club activities and skills that match the apprenticeship, even if you're still developing some of them.

Interview and assessment day

Think of interviews like friendly chats. You'll start with a quick phone call about why you're interested, followed by an apprenticeship assessment day. That's where you'll have another chat and get through some group activities with other candidates.