How to get an apprenticeship in the UK: your complete guide

Published on 13 Feb 2025

6:7 min estimated read time

by Andrea Liu

Disclaimer: The content on this blog is the opinion of the author and it was correct at the time of writing

So, you're looking to start your career with an apprenticeship in the UK? Fantastic! Apprenticeships are a brilliant way to gain hands-on experience, earn while you learn, and develop the skills you need for a successful career.

Whether you're finishing school, thinking of a career change, or looking for a way to level up your current skillset, apprenticeships offer a wide variety of opportunities.

But how do you go about getting one? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know, from finding opportunities to acing your application.

What is an apprenticeship?

Essentially, it’s a structured training programme that combines practical, on-the-job learning with classroom-based education. It’s designed to give you a head start in your chosen profession, whatever that is. You’ll work for an employer, gain relevant experience, and earn a wage while studying towards a qualification, all without accumulating student debt.

There are different levels of apprenticeships in the UK, including:

Intermediate apprenticeships: Equivalent to GCSEs
Advanced apprenticeships: Equivalent to A-levels
Higher apprenticeships: Equivalent to a foundation degree or higher
Degree apprenticeships: Equivalent to a full degree

Step 1: Decide which apprenticeship is right for you

The first thing you’ll need to do when figuring out how to get an apprenticeship is decide what kind of apprenticeship you want to pursue. The options are vast, and the last thing you want is to jump into something without knowing exactly what you want to do. So, take some time to think about your interests, skills, and career goals.

Do you like working with your hands and have an interest in construction? Maybe a bricklaying or electrical apprenticeship would be a good fit. Or, if you’re more business-minded, there are plenty of opportunities in marketing, accountancy, or human resources.

There are also apprenticeships in creative industries, technology, and healthcare, among others. If you’re already a student at UEL, you can speak to our professional Career Coaches who can provide 1-2-1 career coaching sessions to help with your career planning.

Once you’ve narrowed down the field, you’ll be ready to start searching for apprenticeship vacancies.

Step 2: Search for apprenticeship vacancies

Once you know what kind of apprenticeship you want, it’s time to start looking for available positions. Thankfully, there are plenty of resources to help you out when figuring out how to get an apprenticeship.

Find an Apprenticeship: The UK government runs a brilliant website called Find an Apprenticeship, where you can search for apprenticeship opportunities across the country. Simply enter your location and the type of apprenticeship you’re looking for, and you’ll be presented with a variety of options.

Here at UEL, we offer a wide range of apprenticeships from construction to nursing. Take a look at the subjects we offer and contact us at degreeapprenticeships@uel.ac.uk.

Job boards: Websites like Indeed, Reed, and Totaljobs often list apprenticeship vacancies, along with more traditional jobs. Make sure to filter your search for apprenticeships.

Employer websites: If you have a company or sector in mind, check their careers pages. Many large employers like BT, HSBC, and Deloitte offer apprenticeships, and they often have dedicated pages for apprenticeship opportunities.

Social media and networking: Don’t forget to use platforms like LinkedIn or Twitter to follow companies that interest you. Many employers post apprenticeship openings here, and you might even catch an exclusive opportunity!

Career Zone: Career Zone is an online platform offering UEL students a huge range of resources to support their careers. It includes the Career Passport, a digital tool to show key skills sought by employers. Students can access an updated jobs board for internships, placements, graduate roles, and part-time work, along with the Funded Internship Scheme for paid roles within UEL and external organisations. You can also check out the specific apprenticeships we offer here at UEL.

It’s worth noting that apprenticeships tend to have specific application windows, so be sure to stay on top of deadlines. Also, consider signing up for job alert emails or newsletters, so you never miss an opportunity.

Step 3: Prepare your CV and cover letter

Once you’ve found an apprenticeship that excites you, the next step is to prepare your application. This is where the fun begins! But first, you need to know how to get an apprenticeship by standing out from the crowd. The competition can be fierce, so having a strong CV and cover letter is essential.

When applying for an apprenticeship, you’ll likely be asked to submit a CV and a cover letter (unless stated otherwise). Here are some tips for crafting them:

CV tips

Tailor it: Focus on the skills and experiences relevant to the apprenticeship you’re applying for.
Highlight transferable skills: Even if you haven’t had formal work experience, highlight skills like teamwork, communication, problem-solving, and any volunteer work or school projects.
Include your qualifications: Make sure to include your GCSEs, A-levels, or any other relevant education.

Cover letter tips

Personalise it: Address the letter to the specific person who’s hiring, if you can find their name.
Explain why you’re interested: Show your enthusiasm for the apprenticeship and the industry it’s in.
Demonstrate your skills: Don’t just list your qualifications—explain how your skills make you the right fit for the role.

A strong application is a big part of how to get an apprenticeship, so take your time crafting these documents and make sure to proofread them for errors.

Step 4: Apply for the apprenticeship

Once your CV and cover letter are ready, it’s time to submit your application. Some apprenticeship vacancies might ask you to complete an online application form or an assessment. Make sure to follow the instructions carefully and provide all the required information.

If you’re unsure about something in the application, don’t hesitate to contact the employer for clarification. It’s better to ask than risk missing a detail. And remember, apply to more than one apprenticeship! The more you apply for, the higher your chances of landing an interview.

Step 5: Prepare for the interview

Research the company: Know what the company does and what they value. This will show that you’re genuinely interested in their work.

Understand the apprenticeship: Make sure you know the role and the skills you’ll be learning. Employers want to see that you’re serious about the opportunity.

Be ready to talk about yourself: Be prepared to discuss your experiences, skills, and why you’re interested in this apprenticeship.

Ask questions: Having a couple of questions for the interviewer shows your enthusiasm and helps you learn more about the role.

A great interview is key to landing the apprenticeship, so be confident, professional, and authentic.

Final thoughts

Getting an apprenticeship is a fantastic way to kick-start your career. Whether you’re just leaving school, looking for a career change, or hoping to gain further qualifications, apprenticeships offer a great alternative to traditional education routes. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you’ll be well on your way to figuring out how to get an apprenticeship and starting your career with a solid foundation.

At UEL, we’re proud to offer a variety of degree and apprenticeship pathways that can help you find your perfect fit. Good luck, and happy applying!