Benefits of being an apprentice

• Earning a wage, meaning you can learn new skills while getting paid (no student debt)
• Gaining direct industry work experience
• Achieving sector recognised standards or qualifications
• Receiving employment benefits such as sick pay and holiday pay
• Learning from skilled professionals
• Building connections with employers and industry contacts
• Enhancing your chances of getting a well-paid job.

What are the different types of apprenticeships?

Apprenticeships are available in:

• large and small companies
• a wide range of industries and organisations
• small, local organisations to large national brands.

They cover a wide range of sectors including construction IT, business admin, gardening, hairdressing/ beauty, retail and many more. Whether you’re at the start of your career, want to change career direction, or if you’re returning to work after a break, an apprenticeship could be the way in or the way up.

We also work closely with various local councils and colleges. For example, you’ll find the latest Southwark Council apprenticeships listed on our site.

How much will I get paid? 

Apprenticeship wages vary. There is a national minimum wage (NMW) for apprentices, but many employers pay more.  The current NMW for apprentices is £4.15 per hour.

Apprentices are entitled to the apprentice rate if they’re either:

• Aged under 19
• Aged 19 or over and in the first year of their apprenticeship.

For example, an apprentice aged 22 in the first year of their apprenticeship is entitled to a minimum hourly rate of £4.15.

Apprentices are entitled to the minimum wage for their age if they both:

• are aged 19 or over
• have completed the first year of their apprenticeship

An apprentice aged 22 who has completed the first year of their apprenticeship is entitled to a minimum hourly rate of £8.20.

Find out more from the Government’s information on apprenticeships and the national apprenticeship service website about the different apprenticeships available and how to search and apply.

Apply for a Southwark internship