This article was written by Will Hayman-Brown, a content creator apprentice at the Department for Education.
National Apprenticeship Week 2026 has arrived, bringing together employers, training providers, and learners to celebrate apprenticeships and skills. It's also an opportunity to inspire those who don't yet know about apprenticeships and what they can offer. Visit the National Apprenticeship Week website to find out more.
The government recently announced £725 million of investment to help 50,000 more young people into apprenticeships matching skills training with local job opportunities.
Apprenticeships provide an excellent opportunity to kick start your future and develop your skills to have a rewarding career.
What is an apprenticeship?
Whether you're finishing school, considering a career change, or looking for an alternative education route, an apprenticeship could be the best next step for your future career.
Apprenticeships are available to anyone over the age of 16 who is not in full time education and combine structured training whilst gaining valuable on-the-job workplace experience.
They equip you with the latest skills employers need whilst providing a route into successful employment and have a fulfilling career.
As an apprentice, you'll:
- earn a salary
- gain practical work experience
- spend at least 20% off the job training or studying
- develop specific skills relevant to your job role
Apprenticeships can take from 8 months to 6 years to complete, depending on the level, type, or previous experience.
Why choose an apprenticeship and where can you apply?
Apprenticeships are a brilliant way to earn a recognised qualification specific to your occupation and are a proven pathway to skilled, well-paid careers with no tuition fees or student debt.
There are hundreds of apprenticeships available to choose from ranging between levels 2 to 7 across 70 different sectors including digital, construction, healthcare, law, engineering, and the creative industries where you can learn and develop the key skills required for your chosen field.
You can search and apply for apprenticeship vacancies through the government’s official ‘Find an apprenticeship’ service.
What is a Foundation Apprenticeship?
Foundation apprenticeships are an entry level 2 apprenticeship providing young people with an opportunity to start their career journey. They bridge the gap between education and employment, giving young people a route into rewarding careers in sectors where employers need skilled workers.
Foundation apprenticeships are designed for:
- 16 to 21-year-olds
- 22 to 24-year-olds with an Education, Health, and Care Plan (EHCP), are a care leaver or prisoner/prison leaver
- young people who may want extra support before moving into a full apprenticeship
They are available across key sectors including construction and the built environment, engineering and manufacturing, health and social care, and digital.
After completing a foundation apprenticeship, you can progress onto a more specialised apprenticeship at the same or higher level, stay with your employer, or move into other employment.
How can I find out more information?
Find out more on how to become an apprentice.
Visit the Skills for Careers website to find out more details about apprenticeships and skills.
Stay up to date
Want to see apprentices sharing their stories? Follow #NAW2026 on social media throughout National Apprenticeship Week, and follow Apprenticeships and Skills on LinkedIn to stay up to date with the latest opportunities.