Intermediate (Level 2) Apprenticeships...

Intermediate Apprenticeships are an option for people with GCSE grade 4s or better in two or more subjects (or equivalent). Some intermediate apprenticeships, may not specify set GCSE grades but a certain level of academic ability will be required, training providers may require applicants to sit an initial assessment of literacy and numeracy skills if GCSE grade 4s haven't already been achieved.  Alongside the intermediate apprenticeship, apprentices will be expected to study for level 2 qualifications (GCSE, Functional or Key Skills) in English and/or maths.  Intermediate apprenticeships usually take 12-18 months to complete.  Apprentices work towards qualifications such as NVQ level two or a BTEC relevant to the sector and job role and an EPA (End Point Assessment). Completing an intermediate apprenticeship is the equivalent to 5 GCSE passes. After course completion, you are qualified to move into full time employment, apply for an advanced (level 3) apprenticeship or further study at level 3.

Advanced (Level 3) Apprenticeships...

Advanced apprenticeships (also known as level 3) are equivalent to completing 2 A-levels. Often following on from an intermediate apprenticeship, advanced apprenticeships offer further training and qualifications, more money, and the chance to move on to both higher and degree apprenticeships in the future.  Advanced apprenticeships take on average 1-4 years to complete. Like all apprenticeships, advanced apprenticeships are a full-time commitment, apprentices can study to achieve a combination of qualifications - work-based learning, key skills, health & safety, level 3 technical certificates and EPA.

Entry requirements for an advanced apprenticeships are at least 5 GCSEs with grades 9-4 (A* to C). Ideally, these grades would include English and Maths.  Another path to an advanced apprenticeship is to already have a relevant level 2 qualification or have just completed an intermediate (level 2) apprenticeship.  Those who already possess level 3 qualifications such as A levels or BTECs may also be eligible to progress onto an apprenticeship. This is because advanced apprenticeships can offer experience in new job areas, so some new skills will need to be acquired that aren’t covered by your current qualifications.  Progression from an advanced apprenticeship could be directly into employment, higher/degree apprenticeship or higher education.

Higher (Level 4-5) and Degree (Level 6-7) Apprenticeships...

Higher and Degree Apprenticeships are an alternative to university or employment for people aged 18 and over with level 3 (A Level or equivalent qualifications).  Higher apprenticeships go from level 4 to 7 and are equivalent to a foundation degree and above. Degree apprenticeships are available at levels 6 and 7 and are equivalent to a full bachelor’s and Master’s.

Both types of apprenticeship will combine work with study, this could be work-based and/or academic or an industry specific professional qualification. You will undertake training, receive a salary and gain the on-hands experience you’d get from any apprenticeship. 

Pay rates correct as of April 2025. Source data: www.gov.uk