What IS an Apprenticeship, and WHERE can I find them?

An apprenticeship is a real job where you learn, gain experience and get paid; apprentices are employed by a company, with a contract of employment and benefits such as an annual holiday entitlement. By the end of an apprenticeship, apprentices have the right skills and knowledge needed for their chosen career - they have relevant qualifications together with first-hand experience.

Apprenticeships take between one and six years to complete; they are funded from contributions made by the Government and employers, so there is no cost to the apprentice. Those choosing to do a degree apprenticeship can earn a degree without incurring any debt or needing a student loan.

Apprenticeships are a really sought-after and valuable option; they are available in every sector, including agriculture and animal care, catering and hospitality, digital, engineering and manufacturing, hair and beauty, health and science, transport and logistics, legal, finance and accounting, and many more.

An apprenticeship is a real job, so your child will need to meet criteria set out by the employer. Entry requirements differ depending on the employer and the role, but generally, Level 2 apprenticeships (Intermediate) will allow students to resit either/both Maths and English should your child not achieve a Level 2 Pass (Grade 4).

If your child does gain a Level 2 Pass in both English and Maths (Grade 4+), they may be able to start a Level 3 Apprenticeship (Advanced), but this is totally dependent on the employer and the skill level required for the role.

Unifrog has an excellent section on Apprenticeships, the different careers available, how the different apprenticeship levels work, why an apprenticeship may be the best pathway for you, how you apply, and a list of current vacancies. Importantly, the platform also provides support on applying for an Apprenticeship; CV writing and cover letters. Pupils will also find a comprehensive search for local Apprenticeships within their Unifrog account.

 

Below are some fantastic places to look for Apprenticeships. PLEASE check start dates before applying.

• HTP and PETA are local apprenticeship providers – check below for vacancies

 

	BAE Systems offer Intermediate, Advanced, Higher and Degree apprenticeships.
	Amazing Apprenticeships has information on the levels and benefits on an apprenticeship.
	The Black Apprentice Network is a community for aspiring apprentices.
	GetMyFirstJob will connect you with Employers and Colleges to get you on the right track.
	Government Apprenticeship website  https://www.gov.uk/apply-apprenticeship - search postcode/key word. You can also set up email alerts.
	HTP offer apprenticeships in Business, Hospitality and Medical. https://www.htp.ac.uk/apprenticeship-and-traineeship-vacancies/
	Intequal is a specialist technical training provider delivering apprenticeships in software development, data, digital and technology.
	The Law Apprenticeship Guide 2025 can help you whether you're deciding to go to university after leaving school or start your career as a lawyer with an apprenticeship.
	Meet the Employer lets you explore the skills employers look for, learn about the application process and the help and support available.
	Not Going to Uni showcases the alternatives to go to university and allows you to find career opportunities and browse employer profiles.
	Peta specialists in corporate training for the most in-demand professional skills and business improvement courses in Hampshire: https://careers.peta.co.uk/vacancies/vacancy-search-results.aspx?
	RateMyApprenticeship lets you browse reviews from current apprentices, find helpful tips, job opportunities and rates the top 100 Apprenticeship Employers
	The Solent Apprenticeship Hub has a wide range of information and guidance to help find an apprenticeship in the Solent area.
	UCAS Apprenticeship finder: https://careerfinder.ucas.com/ - search key word or location/postcode
	Young Professionals connect young people to big brands to secure work experience or an apprenticeship with links to events and interview practice.

There are many sources of information regarding apprenticeships:

• What is an apprenticeship? Find out more here 

• Apprenticeships are available at different levels. Learn more here 

• See a useful infographic here

 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-fBSS1Sn_Ss

This video shares the experiences of current apprentices' working in the Solent region. Ella, a Marine Apprentice at William's Shipping and Aidan, an Apprentice Quantity Surveyor working at Mountjoy.