What is an apprenticeship?

It's your competitive edge.

An apprenticeship is a paid position where you gain valuable training for your chosen career.

It is a career path that blends technical education with immediate, hands-on experience. It’s a three-way partnership between you, your employer, and the experts here at Derwent Training.

An Apprenticeship offers…

Success stories
“An Apprenticeship will give me the chance to move up in my career and take on new opportunities that would not have been open to me otherwise. I’m excited about my future.”
Levels of Apprenticeships

There are different level of apprenticeships, from Level 2 to Level 7.

They are sometimes categorised as intermediate, advanced, higher, or degree level.

Level 2 - Intermediate Apprenticeship

This level of Apprenticeship provides the basic knowledge and skills for specific jobs. 

There is generally no eligibility criteria, however you will need to demonstrate that you have the ability to complete the training. 

Level 3 - Advanced Apprenticeship

A Level 3 Apprenticeship is equal to A-Levels and offer more specialised knowledge and skills. It is a common next step for those who have no previous qualifications, or have achieved 4 GCSEs (A*-C / 9-4) and want to progress within their career. 

Level 4 - Higher Apprenticeship

A Level 4 Apprenticeship is the equivalent to a Foundation Degree, a Higher National Certificate (HNC), or the first year of an undergraduate degree. 

The entry requirements of a Level 3 Apprenticeship are:

  • You must have achieved a minimum of 45 GCSEs (A*-C / 9-4) alongside one of the above.
 
You must be 18 or above to start a Level 4 Apprenticeship. 
Level 5 - Higher Apprenticeship

A Level 5 Apprenticeship is also classified as a Higher Apprenticeship, but are the equivalent of obtaining a Higher National Diploma. 

The entry requirements for a Level 5 Apprenticeship is similar to a Level 4, but there may be more specific requirements from an employer. 

Level 6 & 7 - Degree Apprenticeship

Degree apprenticeships are  courses offered by universities. The Level 6 Apprenticeship gives candidates the opportunity to achieve a full Bachelor’s degree, and a level 7 is an opportunity to gain a Masters in your chosen subject. 

As these are demanding courses, it is common to see strict requirements from employers for these apprenticeships. You will certainly need prior qualifications. 

Apprenticeship training courses at Derwent Training

We offer a number of Apprenticeship at Derwent Training. You can find out more details through the link below.

Who is eligible for an Apprenticeship?

Everyone is able to undertake an Apprenticeship. Whether you are someone already in work and looking to upskill or a school leaver ready to start your career, an Apprenticeship can offer you a brilliant opportunity.

At a minimum you should:

  • Be 16 years or over at the time of enrolment
  • Be living in England
  • Not already be in full-time education at the point of enrolment
  • Not already hold a qualification at the same level or above in the discipline that you want to study

If you do not live in England, check out Apprenticeship options in Scotland, Wales or Northern Ireland.

Want to start your Apprenticeship journey?

Start your application process with us today

How Training Works: Your 80/20 Growth Strategy

You aren’t just put to work; your employer invests in your expertise. Your apprenticeship is built on a proven balance of theory and practice:

  • 20% Focused Learning: This is your protected time to master the “how” and “why” behind your role. Whether it’s classroom theory at our Malton hub, shadowing a senior pro, or dedicated time for your assignments, this 20% is where you gain the competitive edge.

  • 80% Real-World Impact: The rest of your week is spent “on-the-job,” applying your new skills in a real business environment. We work closely with your employer to ensure your daily tasks align perfectly with your training, so every hour you work counts towards your qualification.

How you get paid as an apprentice

What you earn is solely dependent on your employer.  They set your salary. 

If you are already in a role and start an apprenticeship, it is highly unlikely that your salary will decrease.

There are minimum wage requirements they must meet:

You will need to pay for your day-to-day expenses, such as transport to work and the training centre and your lunches

Find an Apprenticeship
Current Apprenticeships
Process & Production Engineering Apprentice
Company name:
Contract Production Ltd
Closing Date:
31/05/2026
High-Quality Contract Electronics Manufacturing UK Contract Production is a reliable, ISO-certified UK-based provider of high-...
Multi‑Skilled Engineering Apprentice
Company name:
C&D Foods
Closing Date:
31/08/2026
C&D Foods and its affiliates are one of Europe’s leading pet food manufacturers, with a rich heritage spanning more than 50...
CNC Apprentice
Company name:
BSC Filters / MPG Europe
Closing Date:
31/05/2026
BSC specializes in the global design and manufacture of custom RF and Microwave Solutions. Utilising core and advanced filter t...
Why do an Apprenticeship?
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