What are apprenticeships?

Apprenticeships are sometimes perceived as being for young people – this is not the case. They provide paid routes for all age groups into a variety of NHS careers through a blended approach of classroom and on-the-job training. There are lots of videos on the Health Education England (HEE) YouTube channel which demonstrate the huge range of apprenticeships that are available.

NHS apprenticeships are available at four levels which each have different entry requirements:

  1. Intermediate (Level 2) apprenticeships (equivalent to 5 GCSEs at grades 9-4 or A*-C)
    There are no set entry requirements for an intermediate apprenticeship, but employers may set their own. Completing an intermediate level apprenticeship provides the skills you need for certain roles or allows entry to an advanced level apprenticeship.
  2. Advanced (Level 3) apprenticeships (equivalent to 2 A-levels)
    To start an advanced level apprenticeship you should have 5 GCSEs (at grades 9-4 or A*-C) or have completed an intermediate level apprenticeship.
  3. Higher (Levels 4, 5, 6 and 7) apprenticeships (equivalent to a foundation degree and above)
    To start a higher level apprenticeship you should have 2 A-Levels (or equivalent) or have completed an advanced level apprenticeship.
  4. Degree (Levels 6 and 7) apprenticeships (equivalent to a full Bachelor’s or Master’s degree)
    To start a degree level apprenticeship you should have 2 A-Levels (or equivalent) or have completed an advanced level or higher level apprenticeship.

Apprenticeships are available in both clinical and non-clinical areas and can form a critical part of a person's wider career development in the NHS in their chosen area of work. Below there are some example 'pathways' which demonstrate how undertake an apprenticeship may open doors to an exciting career'.

For more information about NHS apprenticeships, take a look at the following websites: