Explore your career path
There's more than one way in. Compare apprenticeships, T-Levels, work experience, bootcamps and university — then see what's actually available right now.
Earn while you learn
Apprenticeships run from GCSE level all the way to master's degree. You're employed and paid from day one, and your training is funded.
Your first step into a trade or profession — equivalent to five GCSEs at grades 9–4.
Equivalent to two A-Levels, and the most common route into skilled work.
Equivalent to the first year of a degree or a Certificate of Higher Education.
Equivalent to a foundation degree or HND — professional-level skills, still fully paid.
A full bachelor's degree, paid for by your employer, while you earn a salary.
Master's-level study and chartered professional status, while you work and earn.
Other routes in
Study, experience and structured programmes — from a week's placement to a graduate scheme.
A two-year technical qualification with a 45-day industry placement built in.
Short placements that let you try a career before committing to it.
Paid, structured placements — usually for students and recent graduates.
A supported bridge into an apprenticeship or job if you're not quite ready yet.
A route into paid work for young people with an EHC plan, with a job coach alongside you.
Free, intensive training of up to 16 weeks — with a guaranteed job interview at the end.
Structured programmes and first jobs for people finishing university.
The traditional route — and how it compares with earning while you learn.