IT Apprenticeships

What does an IT apprentice do?

As an IT apprentice, you'll work a full-time job while studying for a professional qualification. You'll typically spend four days working and one day in training at college or university. Best of all, you’ll earn a salary.

From day one, you'll have real responsibilities and tasks. You'll shadow experienced professionals, learn industry-standard tools, and gradually take on more complex projects. Think of it as getting paid to learn from the best in the business.

Don't worry if you've never coded before - most apprenticeships start from the basics and build your skills up from there. Companies recognise that you’re a school leaver, and will teach you everything you’ll need to know to get the job done.

How long does an IT apprenticeship last?

This depends on the scheme and employer you’ve applied for.

If you’re doing a Level 2 or 3 apprenticeship (perfect for those age 16+), you’ll be training for between one to two years. Once you’ve finished, you’ll be more than ready to rocket straight into an IT career. 

You don’t have to stop there either. If you’re looking for more training, you can move on to apprentice Levels 4 up to 7.

• Level 4/5 (Higher Apprenticeship) takes around two years to complete. 

• A Degree Apprenticeship (Level 6/7) takes around four years.

What types of IT apprenticeship can I do

Most IT apprenticeships are available from Level 3 (Advanced) to Level 6/7 (Degree), giving you plenty of room to grow. Here are the main areas you can get into:

Cyber Security - Protect businesses from online threats and investigate security breaches. We have a whole section dedicated to cyber security apprenticeships, where you’ll learn much more about this popular area of IT.

Data Analysis - Turn raw data into insights that help companies make better decisions.

Software Development - Build websites, apps, and programs that people actually use.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) - Create smart systems like recommendation algorithms and voice assistants.

Network Engineering - Keep computer systems running smoothly and solve technical problems.

Which companies offer IT apprenticeships?

Every company needs tech talent, which means you can work in virtually any industry that interests you. Love gaming? Work for a game studio. Passionate about sustainability? Join a clean energy company's tech team. Into fashion? Help brands build their online presence. 

There are so many businesses in the tech sector and beyond looking for future apprentices like you to join them. Here are some of them:

Ever wanted to know more about working for Renault? Here’s what one data technician apprentice thought about their time there:

Are IT apprenticeships worth it?

They absolutely are. Apprenticeships are your chance to gain the work experience, skills and qualifications employers are looking for. They’re a great alternative to college or university.

It’s also a quick way to get into an industry. An apprenticeship is a full-time job. So you’ll be gaining that all-important experience right from the beginning. You’ll learn directly from industry experts and professionals and get the opportunity to do everything you’ve learned in a workplace setting.

This can supercharge your career, allowing you to be ahead of your peers.

Complete a British Computer Society (BCS) accredited apprenticeship and you can join their professional network (RITTec register of IT and digital professionals), which as a student gets you:

• Career planning and mentoring

• Loads of resources including e-learning and research

• Up to 25% off books and tech

• Invites to webinars and other events

• CV advice.

Student membership can cost between £20 and £30 for the year. But check out the BCS website for full fees.

What are the entry requirements for an IT apprenticeship?

Entry requirements vary between employers, but there are some guidelines that most would stick to.

Level 3 (Advanced) apprenticeship:

• Five GCSEs graded at 9 to 4 (A* to C) or

• Completed a Level 2 apprenticeship.

Level 4/5 (Higher) apprenticeship:

• Two A-Levels at passes or

• Completed an advanced apprenticeship or equivalent (BTEC, Level 3 NVQ/SVQ).

Level 6/7 (Degree) apprenticeship:

• Five GCSEs (or equivalent) grades 9 to 4, including English, Maths and IT

• A minimum of three A-Levels at BBB.

The skills and hobbies you develop outside the classroom will also be handy. You’d be amazed at what employers would be interested in hearing about. So add it to your applications! You can include:

• Coding classes or online tutorials you've completed

• Websites or apps you've built (even simple ones)

• Games you've created or modded.

What employers really value is your enthusiasm and willingness to learn.

How much does an IT apprentice earn?

One of the best things about being an apprentice is that you'll earn from the first day of your career, with most employers paying well above minimum wage.

Your earnings will depend on the company size, location, and specific role, so it's worth researching different opportunities to find the best fit for you. Currently, as an IT apprentice you could earn between £15,000 and £26,000 per year.

Once you’re fully-qualified, there’s so much potential to earn lots more as your industry experience grows. with salaries ranging between £25,000 and over £90,000 per year depending on where you specialise.

How to apply for an IT Apprenticeship

Most employers recruit from September, but many hire year-round so you can start your search anytime.

Once you’ve found a scheme you love, you’ll need to fill in an online application and attach your CV.  You might also need to complete online tests or video interviews before you move on to the next stage. Lots of employers are fully transparent about their application process, so you won’t be surprised along the way.

Should you impress, you’ll be invited to an assessment centre where you’ll take part in group tasks and have your final interview.

Ready to get started? Check out all our application advice, where you’ll find everything from crafting a CV to acing your assessment centre and interviews.