Apprenticeships for 16-Year-Olds

If you’re 16 and have finished, or are about to finish, your GCSEs then this is quite possibly the most important advice you will ever read.

You may be considering your options now and wondering whether to remain in education or take the plunge and do something completely different. But if you prefer to learn hands-on and are ready to enter the workforce, apprenticeships could be the perfect path for you.

This is your one-stop guide to apprenticeships for 16-year-olds, where we bust myths and break down the different types of apprenticeships available to you…

Jump To:

What apprenticeships are available for 16-year-olds? How do they work? What are the best apprenticeships? How many hours can a 16-year-old work on an apprenticeship? How much does a 16-year-old apprentice get paid? Myth-busting How to apply

What apprenticeships are available for 16-year-olds?

There are many apprenticeships available to 16-year-olds! In fact, apprenticeships are school leaver programmes specifically designed for career-ready people aged 16 and above.

These schemes combine real work with academic study. As an apprentice, you’ll receive substantial on-the-job training with a company and work towards nationally certified qualifications. You'll also be paid a salary like any other employee.

Apprenticeships offer an alternative route into work or higher education. While the majority of 16-year-olds choose the sixth form/college and university route after GCSEs, not all careers require A-Levels and a degree.

Are apprenticeships only available in trades?

Apprenticeships used to be associated only with trade industries. No more. There are now apprenticeships on offer in a wide range of industries across the UK, from hands-on roles to corporate 9-to-5's.

You can do an apprenticeship in everything from law to engineering and banking. You could become a solicitor, an accountant or even a police officer. The choice is immense.

How do apprenticeships for 16-year-olds work?

Apprentices work full-time, and split their time between the workplace and a training centre or college.

WORKPLACE

You’ll work and learn from experienced professionals in an industry, developing the practical skills and knowledge required to perform a particular role within a company. This could be office based or field based, depending on what apprenticeship you choose.

TRAINING CENTRE/COLLEGE

The academic aspects of an apprenticeship are covered at a college or training centre. Some employers use internal training facilities. If the apprenticeship is with a smaller company, the employer is likely to use an external training provider. You'll work towards industry recognised qualifications.

How is your time split?

This depends on the employer.

Some programmes are structured so that an apprentice spends four days a week at work and one day at college. Other employers will retain an apprentice for weeks or months at a time and then send them to college for an extended study period.

Read our full guide on how apprenticeships work. (link to /apprenticeships when created)

What are the best apprenticeships for 16-year-olds?

With apprenticeships available in everything from construction to production, the options are limitless. Ultimately, it's up to you. What career do you want?

Industries where apprenticeships exist include Accounting, Design, Finance, Hospitality, Real Estate or Transport and Logistics.

This is just the tip of the iceberg.

VIEW ALL INDUSTRIES

In all of these industries, there are TWO types of apprenticeships available for 16-year-old school leavers…

Level 2 Apprenticeships (Intermediate)

Level 2 apprenticeships are the first step on the apprenticeship ladder. They are the perfect option for any 16 or 17 year old who has either two GCSEs graded at 9 to 4 (A* to C), a T-Level foundation year (LINK) or recent work experience and wants to kick start their career.

All Level 2 apprentices work towards qualifications equivalent to five GCSEs. As a Level 2 apprentice, you will also get paid a full-time wage for the duration of the programme, so you can begin saving up for your first car or holiday with your friends!

What if you don’t have the grades?

If you don’t have the grades or experience needed for a Level 2 apprenticeship, you still have options. Find out more about getting an apprenticeship without GCSEs.

How long do level 2 apprenticeships take?

Level 2 apprenticeships typically take 12-24 months to complete and allow you to continue on to a Level 3 apprenticeship, a BTEC or even full-time employment.

APPLY FOR LEVEL 2 APPRENTICESHIPS

Level 3 Apprenticeships (Advanced)

Level 3 apprenticeships are a step up from Level 2 apprenticeships and are designed for those who already have a Level 2 apprenticeship under their belt or five GCSEs graded at 9 to 4 (A* to C).

Level 3 apprentices work towards qualifications equivalent to two A-Levels, so you could say they are an alternative to college or sixth form.

You will also earn a wage throughout the programme and be eligible for full-time employment or to continue on to a Level 4 (Higher) Apprenticeship (LINK).

APPLY FOR LEVEL 3 APPRENTICESHIPS

If you're also considering staying at school for sixth form or going to college, you can still choose an apprenticeship once you leave.

Click to find out what apprenticeships for 18-year-olds are available.

How many hours can a 16-year-old work on an apprenticeship?

An apprenticeship is a real job, so apprentices normally work for a minimum of 30 hours per week. Sometimes these hours can be reduced depending on the scheme, or if the apprenticeship is extended for any reason.

Apprenticeships are full-time. However, you can do a part-time apprenticeship if you have other commitments. This can include…

If you’re a carer
If you have a disability
If you’re a young person leaving the care system.

If you do become a part-time apprentice, you’ll be working for a minimum of 16 hours per week.

How much does a 16-year-old apprentice get paid in the UK?

All apprenticeships for 16-year-olds pay a salary for the duration of the scheme. The National Minimum Wage changes every year, so check out the government website to find out more.

But you’ll be pleased to know that lots of employers pay much more than the minimum. On average, young apprentices earn yearly:

£12,000 to £21,000

Level 2 Apprentice

£12,000 to £25,000

Level 3 Apprentice

How much you earn depends on the role and company, so it pays (literally) to do your research.

Don’t be completely led by money, though. This is a life-long career you’re building. And by the time your peers have finished college or university, you’ll have years of experience under your belt whilst they’re just getting started.

It’s also important to note that if you are paid over the tax threshold, you will be expected to pay tax (this comes straight out of your pay packet, so there's no extra admin). The amount will depend on your income; you can work out an estimate here.

Myth-busting the apprenticeship

There are so many preconceptions about apprenticeships that you - and your parents - may or may not have heard. We don’t do rumours, so let’s dispel some myths.

MYTH:

Those who go to university are always better off than those who don’t.

TRUTH:

Many apprenticeships fast-track your career, so you qualify more quickly than a graduate. Apprenticeships also give you the qualifications to apply for university or even a degree apprenticeship, which allows you to earn a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree for free!

MYTH:

University degrees are needed for most jobs.

TRUTH:

The UK now has more graduates than graduate jobs, so doing an apprenticeship will give you a step up on the career ladder and help you beat the competition.

MYTH:

Apprenticeships are for tradespeople.

TRUTH:

Apprenticeships have been revolutionised in recent years, and you can now find schemes in an exciting range of industries; from accounting and finance to pharmaceuticals, nursing and engineering.

Heard some more rumours? Read more about how wrong they are.

Apprenticeship Myths Debunked

How do I apply?

Now you have read all this, how do you actually find and apply for apprenticeships? Well, you’re in the right place. Click to search for apprenticeship opportunities.

You will also need to prepare an apprenticeship cover letter and CV. Make sure you tailor these to each role and company for the best chance of success!

You've got this! Good luck.