Higher apprenticeships (Level 5)
A Level 5 apprenticeship is equivalent to a foundation degree, HND or the second year of a bachelor's degree. It's where technical and management careers really open up, and it's often the level people step up to after completing Level 4.
What you get
- Equivalent to a foundation degree or HND
- Often leads directly to a management or senior technical role
- Can be topped up to a full degree at Level 6
- Still fully funded and fully paid
Who it's for
Apprentices continuing from Level 4, and anyone with a foundation degree or equivalent experience.
Common questions
Can I top this up to a full degree?
Often yes — many Level 5 apprentices go on to a Level 6 degree apprenticeship and top up to a full bachelor's degree.
Is this the same as a foundation degree?
It sits at the same academic level, but you're employed and paid throughout, and your training is funded.
Live Higher · Level 5 opportunities
See allMarylebourne - Early Years Lead Practitioner Level 5 Apprenticeship
Ready to take the next step in your early years career? This Level 5 Early Years Lead Practitioner apprenticeship is designed for experienced practitioners looking to develop their leadership skills while continuing to support children's learning and development.
Level 5 Early Years Lead Practitioner Apprenticeship
Working in a senior role such as a Room Leader, Early Years Lead.
Technician Scientist Chemistry – Level 5 Apprenticeship
Support laboratory science that helps AWE deliver safely. You’ll learn practical laboratory skills in real working environments, supporting research, testing, analysis, product design and prototyping across specialist science and engineering teams.







