IT & Digital Apprenticeships
Technology is one of the most exciting careers going. It’s fast-paced, ever-growing, and there are many opportunities to get involved. From artificial intelligence (AI) to virtual reality, employers are constantly looking for talented tech enthusiasts just like yourself.
There are a million reasons why tech is a fantastic career choice. Some of them are…
Tech salaries are around 80% higher than non-tech salaries
You can work in any sector, from fashion to mechanics
The demand for tech roles has increased - employers need a tech team!
The best thing about it all? You don’t have to go to university to be successful in tech.
Read on to get the full scope on IT apprenticeships.
What does an IT apprentice do?
Firstly, as an apprentice, you’ll get real work experience in a real job earning a real salary. You’ll work towards gaining a professional qualification, which will allow you to kick-start your career within your chosen field.
Whatever branch of IT you decide to work in, you’ll typically spend four days on the job and spend one day at a training centre, whether that’s a college or university (depending on the level of apprenticeship you do).
During your training, you’ll do everything from shadowing a senior to getting to grips with your everyday tasks and responsibilities (which you’ll have from day one).
Types of IT apprenticeships
Most IT apprenticeships are available from Level 3 (Advanced) to Level 6/7 (Degree). It’s also super broad. There are loads you can get into. Some of these include…
Cyber Security
Cyber security is a way to protect us from cyber-attacks. We practically live on our smart devices, whether it’s a laptop or smartphone.
We hold massive amounts of personal information, and cyber security is there to prevent devices from being stolen. Call them the MI5 of the online world.
Data Analysis
This role is perfect for people who love data. You’ll be responsible for sourcing, cleaning and sorting data to help businesses in decision-making. Data analysis is also hugely diverse, and you’ll work with loads of different data types.
Web & Software development
Although there are differences between the web and software, you’ll find that developers will work on both. Web developers are responsible for how a website looks and works. A software developer creates and manages programs on computers, laptops and smart devices.
Artificial Intelligence (AI)
You’ve probably downloaded one of those AI art apps like Lensa or used Midjourney. But what exactly is artificial intelligence?
AI is how technology can behave like humans (like M3GAN, but not scary) and how we can use that to make everyday tasks easier. AI is used in several forms across most industries.
Network Engineer
To put it simply, network engineers are the caretakers of a network. They monitor, fix and create processes for a network.
They can do everything from resetting your password to updating software on devices. They are fantastic problem solvers and are relied on to keep systems going.
There are loads more roles within the IT sector, including…
Network architect
Data administrator
Information security analyst
Computer and Information research scientist.
FUN FACT: The first computer virus was invented in 1971 and called Creeper. It displayed the message ‘I’m the Creeper, catch me if you can!”
Who offers IT apprenticeships?
The great thing about IT is that every industry and business relies heavily on technology, so you will always have a job and the unique opportunity to work for a company in an industry you’re interested in.
So if you’re absolutely nuts about Barbie, we’re pretty sure you could work as a tech for Mattel. Some potential industries you can work in also include…
Business
Creative
Finance and Banking
Media
The Armed Forces
There is a shipload of employers in the technology sector and beyond looking for tech-savvy future apprentices like you to join them. These are a few…
Unilever
Unilever is a global fast-moving consumer goods company behind some of our fave brands, including Magnum, Ben & Jerry’s and Vaseline. It’s also one of our Best Student Employers.
The FMCG employer often advertises IT roles, usually for degree apprentices - but it’s always a good idea to keep checking the vacancies. Currently, it offers…
Data Analyst
Data Science Degree Apprenticeship
Software Development.
"“Unilever offers a wide variety of training courses and opportunities to develop skills and knowledge. I have taken many Microsoft training courses and internal training within Unilever, ranging from data security training to discovering your purpose workshops. My role has enabled me to gain critical problem-solving skills and agility and develop key programming, statistical and modelling skills.” " Data Science Degree Apprentice, Unilever.
Airbus
If you love all things planes, Airbus is the company for you.
The global aerospace business designs and manufactures cutting-edge commercial aircraft, helicopters, military transporters, satellites and launch vehicles, providing data services, navigation, cyber and communications security, urban mobility and other solutions.
As you can imagine, there are plenty of IT opportunities here. Airbus offers the following roles in IT…
Cyber Security degree apprenticeship
Digital & technology solutions degree apprenticeship
Junior software engineer
Software Developer.
"“I am never short of support whilst working at airbus. The support network that is in place for apprentices is amazing. In particular the support that I have received from the team I work with and my placement manager has been above and beyond.” " Digital Apprentice, Airbus
Channel 4
Hollyoaks, The Inbetweeners and Countdown. Channel 4 has been bringing us cultural classics since 1982. More than just a television station, it prides itself on working with underrepresented communities and amplifying voices that reflect the UK.
It’s also looking for IT experts like yourselves to join its ranks. On offer, it has…
Cyber Security apprenticeship
Technology apprenticeship.
"“It is an amazing place to work. Everyone is so friendly and welcoming and cool! The job is so exciting and going on shoots and meeting lots of interesting people is really eye opening. It is my dream job.” " Digital Production Apprentice, Channel 4
Jaguar Land Rover
It’s been over 70 years since the Land Rover Series 1, and Jaguar XK120 launched. Since then, the luxury motor giant has become a staple of the British automobile industry.
Jaguar Land Rover regularly offers apprenticeships in IT, including the following…
Cyber security degree apprenticeship
Data analytics degree apprenticeship
Software & data degree apprenticeship
Software engineering degree apprenticeship.
"“Everybody wants to see you succeed and everybody is happy to help with any issues you may face. There is a lot you can learn from seniors within your team and from the University. Your colleagues are aware you're an apprentice and understand that you won't immediately be tackling the most difficult software problems. Everyone's happy to help you, and give you the space to learn.” " Digital Technology Solutions Degree Apprentice, Jaguar
Hear about the Digital Technology Solutions Degree Apprenticeship at the University of Exeter
Are IT apprenticeships worth IT?
They absolutely are.
There are loads of ways to get into the technology space, but an apprenticeship is, by far, one of the best ways to do that. Why? Because apprenticeships are your chance to gain the work experience, skills and qualifications employers are looking for.
It’s also a quick way to get into an industry. An apprenticeship is a full-time job. So you’ll be gaining that all-important experience right from the beginning.
You’ll learn directly from industry experts and professionals and get the opportunity to do everything you’ve learned in a workplace setting.
Plus, if you do an apprenticeship accredited through the British Computer Society, The Chartered Institute for IT (BCS), you’ll be eligible to join the BCS and enter the RITTech register.
There are loads of benefits to joining the BCS. Some include…
Be part of the RITTec register of IT professionals
Career planning and mentoring
Advice and insight from IT professionals
E-learning materials on business, management and tech
Get official initials next to your name.
If your employer is part of a BCS organisational scheme, they might cover the cost of your membership.
Don’t just take our word for it. Hear from apprentices below.
How long is an IT apprenticeship?
This depends on the scheme and employer you’ve applied for.
If you’re doing a Level 2 or 3 apprenticeship, you’ll be training for between one to two years. Once you’ve finished, you’ll be more than ready to spread your technical wings.
However, if you want more training - you can move on to apprentice Levels 4 up to 7.
Level 4/5 (Higher Apprenticeship) takes around two years to complete. A Degree Apprenticeship (Level 6/7) takes four years.
What are the entry requirements for an IT apprenticeship?
Entry requirements vary between employers, but there are some guidelines that most would stick to. Plus, you can include hobbies and experiences that you might have originally thought irrelevant in your applications. Let’s get into it.
If you’re doing a Level 3 (Advanced) apprenticeship, you’ll need…
Five GCSEs graded at 9 to 4 (A* to C) or
Completed a Level 2 apprenticeship.
For a Level 4/5 (Higher) apprenticeship, the entry requirements are…
Two A-Levels at passes or
Completed an advanced apprenticeship or equivalent (BTEC, Level 3 NVQ/SVQ.
If you’re applying for a Level 6/7 (Degree) apprenticeship, you’ll need…
Five GCSEs (or equivalent) grades 9 to 4, including English, Maths and IT
A minimum of three A-Levels at BBB.
Some degree apprenticeships may also look for a certain number of UCAS points. For example, you’ll need a minimum of 96 UCAS points to get onto the AstraZeneca Data scientist degree apprenticeship.
The skills and hobbies you develop outside the classroom will also be handy. You’d be amazed at what employers would be interested in hearing about. So add it to your applications! You can include…
Coding classes you’ve attended
Web design
Programming
Creating apps
Developing games.
How much does an IT apprentice earn?
One of the best things about being an apprentice is you'll earn while studying from the first day of your career. Currently, the average apprentice earns a minimum wage of £5.28 per hour.
However, employers pay a lot more and how much you earn depends on the level of apprenticeship and the IT sector you’re pursuing.
A Data analyst apprentice can earn anywhere between £16,000 to £25,000 per year, and a Software developer apprentice can earn between £17,000 to £25,000 per year.
Once you fully qualify, you’re set to make BIG coin with salaries ranging from £25,000 to £35,000 per year.
Salaries vary greatly, so it’s best to shop around and see what’s out there.
IT apprenticeships are always a good idea. It’s a surefire way to launch and secure a fruitful career in tech.
There are loads of roles available in the IT sector right now! Click below to start your journey. Good luck.
Search for IT Apprenticeships