Do I Get Paid for An Apprenticeship?

Earning whilst learning is entirely possible thanks to apprenticeships, which are a recognised way to take on industry-specific knowledge and skills whilst immersed in a hands-on role. Theoretical knowledge can be applied to real life scenarios in a workplace, which gives a well-rounded learning experience that means you’re ready for a long, fulfilling career at the end of the apprenticeship. 

There is, however, often some confusion over whether an apprentice gets paid, and in this article, we’re going to be explaining how it all works. 

What is an apprenticeship?

An apprenticeship is essentially paid work experience that is undertaken alongside formal training, usually conducted in a classroom, such as a college course. The apprenticeship is usually in a ‘hands on’ role or industry, where theoretical learning can only get you so far. Good examples include engineering, hospitality, and agriculture, though more desk-based industries such as marketing, finance and IT can still be entered into via an apprenticeship. 

20% of an apprentice’s working hours must be dedicated to their studies, and there should be no increase in working hours to ‘make up’ this time.

Do apprentices get paid?

As we’ve alluded to, apprentices do get paid, making it a best-of-both-worlds scenario for learners to continue acquiring knowledge and skill whilst also earning a wage in a practical way that’s useful to their studies.

Apprenticeships are classed as paid employment, so apprentices are entitled to the same rights as employees, which extends to working hours and break times. 

How much do apprentices get paid? 

It’s important to note that the pay for apprentices is usually reviewed every April. Apprentices have the right to be paid the national minimum wage, which is as follows for 2023/24. 

Aged 16 to 18

The current National Minimum Wage rate apprentices is £5.28 per hour. (rising to £6.40 per hour in April 2024)

Aged 19 or over and in their first year

The current National Minimum Wage rate apprentices is £5.28 per hour (rising to £6.40 per hour in April 2024). 

Aged 19 or over and have completed their first year

Apprentices will be entitled to the National Minimum Wage or National Living Wage rate for their age.

It’s worth noting that apprentices still must pay income tax on what they earn. 

Are apprentices entitled to paid holiday? 

As apprentices are classed as paid employees, they’re entitled to the same amount of statutory holiday, and this is in addition to bank holidays, and any time away from paid work that they need to have to complete their studies. The minimum number of days holiday an apprentice is entitled to is 20 days, but some employers may choose to offer more. 

Are apprentices entitled to sick pay? 

Apprentices are entitled to statutory sick pay alongside other paid employees. Again, a company may offer enhanced sickness pay. Statutory sick pay applies if you have been off sick for 4 days in a row (including non-working days), earn on average at least £123 a week (gross), and if you have told your employer that you’re sick within any deadline the employer has set (or within 7 days). 

What rights does an apprentice have?

Apprentices have the same rights as employees, which includes paid holidays, statutory sick pay, a right to a safe working environment, and the same conditions as employees working in similar roles (such as employee benefits). 

Does an apprentice need a contract of employment? 

Whilst employers can choose whether or not to give their apprentice a full contract, they must at least sign an apprenticeship agreement with their apprentice, which outlines:

• the skill, trade or occupation that an apprentice is being trained for
• the name of the apprenticeship that the apprentice is working towards
• The dates that the apprenticeship starts and ends
• the amount of training they’ll receive 

Where can I find an apprenticeship provider? 

For both those looking to learn, and those looking to upskill the workforce of the future, Skern Training and Skills can help you achieve your goals. We’re an approved Main Apprenticeship provider, offering end to end apprenticeships in a number of standards, as well as behavioural programmes designed to upskill existing employees. Find out more about our apprenticeships, and get in touch today.