Media Apprenticeships

Can you get an apprenticeship in media?

Yes, you can definitely get an apprenticeship in media, and it’s a great way to start a career in the industry. Media apprenticeships are available in a wide range of areas, including journalism, digital content creation, film and TV production, social media, radio, and marketing. 

They allow you to learn on the job while earning a wage and working towards a recognised qualification, making them a practical alternative to college or university.

These apprenticeships are offered by broadcasters like the BBC and ITV, creative agencies, production companies, and even local businesses with media teams. Roles can involve filming, editing, research, writing, or managing social media, giving you hands-on experience and a real understanding of how the industry works. 

Whether you’re into storytelling, technology, or design, there’s likely a media apprenticeship that matches your interests and skills.

How does a media apprenticeship work?

A media apprenticeship is a paid job that combines real work experience with structured training. As an apprentice, you’ll spend most of your time working for a media company, such as a broadcaster, digital agency, or production studio, and the rest learning through a training provider or college. This could mean one day a week in class or regular online study sessions, depending on the programme.

During the apprenticeship, you’ll gain hands-on experience in areas like video production, editing, content creation, journalism, or social media. 

You'll also work towards a recognised qualification, such as a Level 3 or Level 4 diploma in creative media or digital marketing. It’s a great way to build your skills, portfolio, and confidence while earning and learning at the same time.

What type of media apprenticeships are there?

You could find yourself working in publishing, advertising, journalism, animation and CGI, or even working on the technology behind the scenes.

• Digital Media. Working with marketing and communication teams, you’ll spend your time creating content for digital media campaigns. You’ll have top-tip knowledge of everything social media. Apprentices help with keeping all comms and campaigns on-brand. This could lead to creating or updating the online branding itself.

• Digital Marketing. The behind-the-scenes influencers of the world, digital marketers are experts in the art of selling products and services online. Loads of little bits make up the role – anything from social media to mobile marketing and copywriting.

• Journalism. For those with the gift of the written word and a curious mind, an apprenticeship in Journalism is the way to go. Apprentices will spend most of their time in the newsroom finding the latest scoops while working towards an NCTJ National Qualification.  There’ll also be plenty of chances to go out into the field.

• Theatre and Live Events. You might not get to act out an impressive Emma Watson-style monologue, but there’s plenty to do behind the red curtain. An apprenticeship in theatre and live events could involve light design, video creation, sound engineering and event coordination.

• Broadcast production for TV and radio. A broadcast production apprenticeship will assist in creating content for TV and radio. You’ll get the chance to contribute fresh and exciting ideas that could end up being shown on TV or played on the radio. There’ll be loads of opportunities to film, audio record and edit content for various projects that you’ve researched and written yourself. Legal training is also given. It’ll come in handy.

• Film production. There’s lots to do in a film production apprenticeship, but they’re usually specific to a particular area of film. So it’ll help to have an idea of where you want to fit in. You’ll get the chance to take your pick from animation, CGI, visual effects and directing, among others. The UK Screen Alliance and ScreenSkills have some great advice, as well as opportunities listed on their job boards.

• Publishing. You could work for the likes of Bloomsbury, Penguin or Pan Macmillan. Supporting various departments of a publishing company, a publishing apprentice gets involved in the many stages a book passes through from inception to publication. The role involves both administrative and editorial responsibilities. One day you’ll be filing and arranging systems and writing contracts, and other days you could be researching the latest authors or even copywriting, editing and proofreading.

Which companies offer apprenticeships in media?

Now you know how diverse media apprenticeships can be, it’s time to start applying. But who’s hiring?

There are a wide variety of job opportunities with some prestigious employers. 

Sky, ITV, and the BBC are among a platter of companies searching for fresh talent to join their apprenticeship schemes. Find out more below…

Sky Apprenticeships

WHERE: HQ, LONDON
HOW LONG: 12-18 MONTHS

Broadcasting giant Sky offers a wide range of apprenticeship opportunities.

Sky is always on the hunt for passionate and hard-working apprentices who are looking to start their careers in the world of media.

Schemes at Sky vary, but you can work in anything from broadcast engineering to software development.

To get started, all they ask is for you to register. From there, it’s all smooth sailing. 

Prospective apprentices will be required to take a digital assessment, including a video interview. If you get through to the final stage, you’ll be invited to an apprenticeship assessment day where you’ll get to meet the team.

Not only do you get paid, but an apprentice will also receive some pretty decent perks on top. Some benefits include healthcare, Sky Q and broadband packages. 

ITV Apprenticeships

WHERE: ALL OVER THE UK
HOW LONG: 9-18 MONTHS

Home of the UK’s fave meme, Gemma Collins and our national uncles Ant & Dec, ITV is the hub of Saturday night entertainment and plenty of dramas to keep you on your toes.

Usually taking the form of Level 3 apprenticeships, there are opportunities across the whole organisation from broadcasting to journalism and technology.

Depending on the scheme, applicants might also be asked to record short videos or written statements on a particular topic.

If you’re shortlisted, you’ll be invited to an assessment day.

Apprentices are full-time employees. So they receive a handsome salary as well as other staff benefits and holidays.

What GCSEs and A-levels do you need for a media apprenticeship?

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

• Level 2 - Some ask for two or more GCSEs graded at 9 to 4 (A* to C). However, lots of Level 2 apprenticeships don’t require GCSEs.

• Level 3 - Five GCSEs graded 9 to 4 (A* to C) or a Level 2 apprenticeship

• Level 4/5 (Higher) - Two A-levels or equivalent (like a BTEC or an NVQ/SVQ).

• Level 6/7 (Degree) - Three A-levels graded at A* to C or equivalent.

Some employers may also require a GCSE in Media Studies or a related subject like Art, Music, or Technology. 

For higher or degree apprenticeships, A-levels (or equivalent Level 3 qualifications) in English, Media Studies, or other relevant subjects are often necessary.

How to apply for a media apprenticeship

Applying for a media apprenticeship starts with finding the right opportunity. You can search here at Higherin, as well as training provider websites, or directly through employers like the BBC, Channel 4, or creative agencies. 

Many roles are open to school leavers, college students, or those looking to change careers, and no university degree is required.

Once you’ve found a role, you’ll usually need to submit a CV and cover letter explaining why you’re interested in media, what skills or experience you have (even from school or personal projects), and what makes you a good fit. 

Some applications may also ask for a portfolio of work, especially if the role involves content creation, design, or video editing. If shortlisted, you'll likely be invited to an interview or assessment, where you can show your enthusiasm, creativity, and willingness to learn.