Adult Apprenticeships

Adult apprenticeships allow people of any age to earn a wage, gain new skills and work towards a recognised apprenticeship standard.

They can help you:

• start a new career
• retrain in a different industry
• gain a qualification
• develop skills in your current job
• work towards a promotion
• return to work after a career break

There is no general upper age limit for apprenticeships in England.

This means apprenticeships are not only for school leavers. Adults in their 20s, 30s, 40s, 50s and beyond can apply.

What is an adult apprenticeship?

An adult apprenticeship is not a separate type of apprenticeship.

Adults complete the same approved apprenticeship standards as younger apprentices.

The phrase “adult apprenticeship” simply describes an apprenticeship completed by someone over the age of 18.

As an apprentice, you will:

• be employed
• earn a wage
• receive training during paid working hours
• gain practical workplace experience
• develop skills linked to your job
• work towards an approved apprenticeship standard

You may also gain a separate qualification, such as a diploma, professional award or degree, if it is included in the programme.

Is there an age limit for apprenticeships?

There is no general upper age limit for most apprenticeships.

To start an apprenticeship in England, you must usually:

• be aged 16 or over
• live in England
• not be in full-time education when the apprenticeship starts
• have the right to live and work in the UK

You can apply whether you are:

• starting your first career
• changing careers
• returning to work
• already employed
• looking to gain new skills
• aiming for a more senior role

Some apprenticeship routes have different funding or age rules. Always check the vacancy carefully before applying.

Can adults apply for apprenticeships?

Yes. Adults can apply for apprenticeships at different levels and in many industries.

You may be able to start an apprenticeship in areas such as:

• business
• accounting
• law
• healthcare
• engineering
• construction
• digital technology
• marketing
• education
• public services
• science
• transport
• hospitality

The opportunities available will depend on the employers, training providers and apprenticeship standards in your area.

Can you do an apprenticeship if you already have a degree?

Yes. Having a degree does not automatically stop you from starting an apprenticeship.

You may be able to apply if the apprenticeship will teach you significant new skills.

For example, you could use an apprenticeship to:

• move into a different industry
• gain a professional qualification
• retrain for a new role
• develop specialist knowledge
• progress into management
• learn skills not covered by your degree

The apprenticeship should not simply repeat training or knowledge you already have.

Your employer and training provider may review your previous qualifications and experience before the programme begins.

Can you do an apprenticeship with your current employer?

Yes. You do not always need to leave your job to become an apprentice.

Your current employer may be able to enrol you on an apprenticeship to help you:

• gain new skills
• take on more responsibility
• move into another department
• gain a professional qualification
• progress towards promotion
• prepare for a future role

You will need your employer’s support because the apprenticeship includes paid training time and workplace development.

Speak to your manager, HR team or learning and development team to find out whether apprenticeships are available.

Are adult apprenticeships suitable for career changers?

Adult apprenticeships can be a useful way to change careers.

They allow you to gain workplace experience while learning the sk