What is an apprenticeship?
Apprenticeships are a way to get real-life industry experience that'll help you feel confident in your future career.
You'll work for an employer while you study at school, in college or at university. Taking part in and completing an apprenticeship will give you skills and experience that'll kick-start your career, while you gain recognised qualifications along the way.
Is an apprenticeship right for me?
Yes! There are loads of different types of apprenticeship that suit different age groups and levels of study. They also span a wide variety of industries – from sound engineering to accounting.
The majority of apprenticeships don't have entry requirements or complicated sign-up processes – as long as you bring your enthusiasm and interest, you'll be a great fit.
How do I apply?
If you're still at school, you can find out how to apply for a Foundation Apprenticeship by letting your teacher know which one you're interested in.
Looking for Modern or Graduate apprenticeship opportunities? You can apply right here on our site with our vacancy search tool. We've got every apprenticeship across Scotland covered and there is bound to be something for you.
Interested? Brilliant!
Use the options below to navigate to the right apprenticeship choice for you – you’ll find out how and when you can apply, as well as a more in-depth explanation of how each one works.
FA
Foundation Apprenticeship
Get amazing work experience while you’re in 5th or 6th year of school.
Foundation Apprenticeships
MA
Modern Apprenticeship
Over 16? Earn while you learn and work towards a qualification that’ll set you up for a bright future.
Modern Apprenticeships
GA
Graduate Apprenticeship
Split your time between working for a wage and learning – ending up with a qualification that’s equivalent to a full-time university degree.
Graduate Apprenticeships
Need a bit of help?
We get it. Filling out applications and making decisions about your future can be intimidating. Head over to our friends at My World of Work to get some brilliant tips on applying for jobs and apprenticeships, as well as guidance that’ll help you build your confidence in decision-making.
Ways we can support you
Let's talk about it
Think an apprenticeship is the right choice for you? Let’s get your parents on board too.
Use the link below for a handy guide you can direct your parents or carer to – it'll help them understand what you can achieve and how apprenticeships work.
Guide for Parents
Mental health support
Difficulty thinking about your future, concentrating, or speaking to the people around you can be signs that you may be struggling with poor mental health. It's okay to be feeling this way, and there's loads of support out there for you.
Think about speaking to your parents, or a trusted teacher about how you're feeling – or find support through the resource we've developed that's linked below.
Mental Health Resources
Fair Work is for everyone
You have the right to be treated fairly at work. The Fair Work Convention helps all employees in Scotland to have a voice, opportunity, security, fulfilment and respect.
Apprenticeships are for everyone
If you are disabled or have learning difficulties, you might be eligible for additional support such as Access to Work grants. Find out about what’s available and where to get advice on My World of Work.
Look out for the Disability Confident symbol on the job vacancies on our site. This means if you apply, identify yourself as being disabled, and meet the minimum criteria, you should be offered an interview.