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This week 9 -13 February 2026 is . It’s an opportunity to find out what they are and what they can offer.

What is an apprenticeship ?

A way of equipping you with the latest skills leading to a route into employment, without any tuition fees or student debt. The government has recently announced extra investment to help 50,000 young people into apprenticeships matching skills training with local job opportunities. Apprenticeships are available across 70 different sectors and range between level 2 (Foundation) to level 7.

What does an apprenticeship offer?

• a salary
• practical on-the-job work experience
• off the job structured training or studying

It can take between 8 months to 6 years to complete depending on the type, level or previous experience.

How do you qualify for an apprenticeships ?

• be over the age of 16
• not in full time education

What is a foundation apprenticeship ?

They are available across key sectors at an entry level 2. Foundation apprenticeships are designed for:

• 16-21 year olds
• 22-24 year olds with an Education Health and Care (EHC) plan, are a carer leaver or prisoner/prison leaver
• young people who may want extra support before moving into a full apprenticeship

Upon completing a foundation apprenticeship, you can progress onto a more specialised apprenticeship at the same or higher level.

What is a ‘green’ apprenticeship?

Green apprenticeships provide skills for roles that contribute to protecting and restoring the environment and maybe even climate change. From nature restoration to nuclear power, a range of opportunities exist.

What are T levels ?

They are two-year technical courses for  16 to 19 year olds, equivalent to three A levels, combining classroom learning with an industry placement to help young people develop technical and practical skills for the workplace.

While apprenticeships are jobs with training. T Levels are primarily education-based with a work placement element.

Visit the to find out about the 21 T level subjects to choose from.

How can I find out more ?

Refer to our Local Offer webpages:

Next steps guide - post-16 options for pupils with special educational needs - Apprenticeships

Preparing for adulthood for young people with additional needs or disabilities - Employment

Find out more on

Visit to find out more details about apprenticeships and skills.