If you are thinking about a future in engineering, an apprenticeship can be a great way to get started. It gives you the chance to learn on the job, build real experience and work towards recognised qualifications at the same time.
If you are not sure where to start, you are not alone. Many learners know they are interested in engineering, but feel less sure about the route in, the entry requirements, or what training actually looks like.
Below, we have answered some of the most common questions learners ask when they are looking into engineering apprenticeships.
What is an engineering apprenticeship?
An engineering apprenticeship is a real job with training. You work for an employer, earn a wage and build practical skills while also completing the learning linked to your role. That means you are not only learning about engineering in theory. You are building experience in a real working environment at the same time.
That is a big reason why this route works so well for many learners. Instead of waiting until the end of a course to step into industry, you start developing the skills, confidence and workplace habits employers look for from day one.
What engineering apprenticeships can I go into?
You can go into a range of engineering areas, depending on what kind of work you enjoy most. Engineering is a broad sector, so there is more than one route in and more than one kind of career to build towards.
Some of the main areas learners often look at include:
- Machining if you enjoy precision work, making parts and working with manual or CNC machines
- Fitting and assembly if you like building, testing and maintaining equipment or systems
- Maintenance and automation if you are interested in keeping machinery running and solving faults
- Technical support and manufacturing support if you enjoy problem-solving, process improvement and helping production run smoothly
- Toolmaking and design if you are interested in how tools, components and processes are developed
If you are still weighing things up, see the job roles explained and read our past blog: your engineering and manufacturing career guide. They can help you picture where different engineering routes could lead and understand what’s involved.
Do I need GCSEs to apply for an engineering apprenticeship?
In many cases, yes, but it depends on the apprenticeship, the level and the employer.
A lot of engineering apprenticeships ask for GCSEs in English and maths, and some may also want a science, design or technical subject. The exact grades and subjects can vary, so it is always worth checking the entry requirements for the specific role you are interested in.
The main thing is not to rule yourself out too quickly. Not every engineering apprenticeship asks for exactly the same qualifications, and some employers will also look at your interest in the industry, your attitude and your willingness to learn.
How old do I need to be to start an engineering apprenticeship?
To start an apprenticeship in England, you need to be 16 or over and not in full-time education. You can still apply while you are at school, as long as you will be 16 by the end of the summer holidays when the apprenticeship begins.
That means apprenticeships can be a strong option for school leavers, especially if you want a route that feels more practical and career-focused from the start.
There is also no upper age limit, so apprenticeships can be an option for adults too.
How long do engineering apprenticeships take?
Engineering apprenticeships do not all take the same amount of time, but they usually last between one and four years, depending on the level, route and programme structure.
As a general guide, Level 2 apprenticeships often take around 12 to 18 months, Level 3 can take around 18 to 36 months, and higher apprenticeships can take up to four years.
How do I apply for an engineering apprenticeship?
You apply for an engineering apprenticeship by finding a vacancy, checking that it suits your interests and entry level, and then sending in an application. A good place to begin is our looking at our live vacancies, for current opportunities.
It can also help to see the environment for yourself before applying. Our apprenticeship open days give you the chance to tour our training facilities, talk to our recruitment team, discuss vacancies and get a clearer feel for the apprenticeship route.
If you are still at school and want an early feel for the route, our taster days are designed for students in Years 10, 11, 12 and 13 and are there to help young people experience a day in the life of an apprentice.
Final thoughts
If you are looking for a route into engineering that is practical, hands-on and built around real careers, an apprenticeship is well worth considering. It gives you the chance to gain experience, grow in confidence and build industry-ready skills while working towards qualifications at the same time.
The main thing is to start by exploring the kind of engineering that interests you most, then look at the entry requirements, training and vacancies that fit. From there, you can take the next step with much more confidence.