Higher and Degree Apprenticeships are an alternative to university for school leavers taught up to level 3 (e.g. A Level or equivilant).
Apprenticeships are not only for 16 year olds leaving school. If you are over 18 or educated to Level 3 standard, they could be a good option for you too.
What are higher apprenticeships?
Higher apprenticeships (Level 4/5) are equivalent to a foundation degree so you will usually need to have completed A levels (or equivalent) to sign up.
Higher apprenticeships are available in a wide range of areas, from accounting to to nursing to engineering. You can explore apprenticeships and apply on the Find an Apprenticeship website.
What are degree apprenticeships?
Degree apprenticeships are equivalent to a bachelors degree or masters degree. Like most apprenticeships, your time will be split between on the job training and learning in a college/university environment. You get the training, salary and on-hands experience you’d get from any apprenticeship. On top of that, you study towards a degree in a specific career field. All of your study costs will be paid for by your employer.
What are school leaver programmes?
Much like higher and degree apprenticeships, school leaver programmes are an alternative to university. You can study for a qualification up to degree-level in a business field that interests you while working for an employer at the same time. As with a degree apprenticeship, your learning is paid for by your employer so you can achieve a degree – and salary, and often a guaranteed job at the end of your learning – without spending a penny in tuition fees or getting into student debt.
