Apprenticeships offer a fantastic alternative to traditional university education, providing practical skills, valuable work experience, and financial independence. Whether your child is interested in engineering, healthcare, creative media, or emerging fields like bioinformatics, there are numerous opportunities to kick-start a rewarding career. Encourage them to explore these top apprenticeship programmes and find the path that best suits their interests and aspirations.
Whether you are someone just leaving school, studying your GCSEs and looking at your options; or someone later in their career looking to make a big career transition for example, learning to code, this page should be able to help you. As the futurist market is updated, so too will this page. Hopefully, this will give our readers top tier advice for choosing the best apprenticeships in the UK.
Bioinformatics
Why it’s great: Bioinformatics apprenticeships are perfect for those interested in the intersection of biology and technology. This field combines biological data with computational techniques to understand biological processes, making it an exciting and rapidly growing area.
Specialists who use computational, data analytical and data mining techniques which are applied to a range of problems in the life sciences.
NGJ Purpose Rating: 10
Bioinformatics Apprenticeships have the added benefit of having a positive purpose, it’s very likely any company or institution you work for in this role will be having some positive impact on human health. That’s a particular important to a lot of people since the pandemic.
Benefits:
- Involvement in cutting-edge research and data analysis.
- Opportunities to work in various sectors, including healthcare, pharmaceuticals, and biotechnology.
- Development of skills in programming, data analysis, and biological sciences.
Example Companies: The Wellcome Sanger Institute offers a Bioinformatics Apprenticeship where apprentices gain experience in analysing large-scale genomic data, developing algorithms, and contributing to important research projects. This program provides a comprehensive understanding of biological sciences and computational techniques, preparing apprentices for a successful career in bioinformatics.
Below you will see the biggest companies/institutions that hire bioinformaticians. Namely University of Cambridge, University College London, University of Oxford, Imperial College London, and AstraZeneca. Sequencing companies like Oxford Nanopore and Illumina among others are likely to offer these kind of positions (either at apprenticeship level or once you have completed your apprenticeship).
There are 20% more people with bioinformatics in their profile, than this time last year (2023 to 2024). Growth of this skill likely reflects what is going on in industry. The reader should not the genomics tends to be concentrated to London/Cambridge/Oxford/Manchester and Edinburgh. But that’s probably true of many jobs in tech (and otherwise).
What you’ll learn:
- Programming languages such as Python, R, and Perl.
- Techniques for analysing genomic data and other biological datasets.
- Understanding of molecular biology, genetics, and data visualization.
Career prospects: Graduates of bioinformatics apprenticeships can pursue careers as bioinformatics analysts, computational biologists, or data scientists in research institutions, healthcare companies, and pharmaceutical firms. The demand for bioinformatics professionals is high, making it a promising field with numerous opportunities for growth and specialization.
Above is an example of an apprentice Bioinformatics Scientist passage starting at AstraZeneca as an apprentice before reaching Senior Data Scientist within 4 years. Please note this person already had a degree in biological sciences, but this path is possible for anyone.
More about the standard can be found here: https://www.instituteforapprenticeships.org/apprenticeship-standards/bioinformatics-scientist-degree-v1-0
Data Science
Next on the list is Data Science Apprenticeships, which can be doing similar work to so bioinformaticians. In fact, that’s the beauty of Data Science, since the explosion of OpenAI’s ChatGPT, pretty much any reasonably sized company has hired, or considered hiring, data scientists. Learning this skill can set you up for a lot of success in the future.
Courses:
Why it’s great: Data Science apprenticeships are ideal for those with a passion for analyzing data, creating algorithms, and solving complex problems. This field is crucial for businesses looking to leverage data for strategic decisions.
NGJ Purpose Rating: 8/10 – varies widely based on what you use it for (practically everyone company is involved in this space).
Quick stats from Linkedin:
As you can see the impact of the AI Buzz has led to a 39% increase people adding Data Scientist to their profile. Linkedin can be a be a bit misleading, but it also deems this talent the “hardest to hire for”, and speaking as a recruiter for a large US firm, I would have to agree. There is so much interesting work out their, you could be working on curing cancer to oil trading and everything in between. Taking on this apprenticeship should give you a lot of options.
Interesting, in the UK the average salary at Meta is $194,000 per year – far in excess of any other skill on this list. Do note though, these will be some of the top minds in their field but with the right preparation and hardwork you could make it there.
Benefits:
- Involvement in cutting-edge data analysis and machine learning.
- Opportunities to work across various sectors, including finance, healthcare, and technology.
- Development of skills in programming, statistics, and data visualization.
Example Companies:
As I stated above, most large companies will be looking at this apprenticeship, since it’s very expensive to hire senior data scientists apprenticeships are a cost effective way to build more
- Google: Offers apprenticeships in data analysis and machine learning, providing hands-on experience with big data technologies.
- IBM: Provides data science apprenticeships focusing on data analytics, artificial intelligence, and business intelligence.
- Capgemini: Offers data science and AI apprenticeships, combining academic study with practical work experience.
What you’ll learn:
- Programming languages such as Python and R.
- Machine learning algorithms and statistical analysis.
- Data visualization techniques and tools.
Career prospects: Graduates can pursue careers as data scientists, machine learning engineers, or business intelligence analysts in various industries. The high demand for data professionals ensures numerous opportunities for career growth and specialization.
As I said before, you can decide whether you want the most interesting work or simply to get paid the most. Sometimes they align, but not always.
Tax / Accountancy Apprenticeships
I put this one in as a lot of people consider accountancy, but the area that really gets overlooked is tax. People think it’s boring, and it might be to some. But if you cannot the how crazy difficult it is to get a training contract as lawyer, tax is much less competitive but can be very well paid – potentially without the big hours. Whenever I have hired for tax in the past, I’ve struggled. So make of that what you will, but it’s one of the few areas where talent is non-existent.
Why it’s great: Tax and accountancy apprenticeships provide a strong foundation in financial management, auditing, and tax regulations, essential for those interested in a career in finance.
Benefits:
- In-depth knowledge of tax laws and financial reporting.
- Pathways to becoming a chartered accountant or tax advisor.
- High earning potential and career stability.
Example Companies:
- PwC: Their Tax Apprenticeship offers a blend of professional work and study, leading to qualifications with ICAEW or ACCA.
- KPMG: Provides apprenticeships in audit, tax, and advisory services, offering comprehensive training and career development.
- Ernst & Young: Offers apprenticeships in tax and financial management, providing hands-on experience and professional qualifications.
- There are loads of ways to get into accountancy, and in increasingly more are offering school leaver programmes.
If you are an employer you can read more here: https://www.instituteforapprenticeships.org/apprenticeship-standards/accountancy-or-taxation-professional-v1-0
What you’ll learn:
- Financial accounting and reporting.
- Tax laws and regulations.
- Auditing and business advisory skills.
Career prospects: Graduates can pursue careers as accountants, tax advisors, or auditors in top accounting firms and various industries. The finance sector’s stability ensures a continuous demand for skilled professionals.
Supply Chain / Procurement
Why it’s great: Supply Chain and Procurement apprenticeships are perfect for those interested in logistics, procurement, and operations management, ensuring the smooth flow of goods and services.
It’s again an area of business you don’t hear much about in school, or indeed even in your professional career depending on where you work. But supply chain and procurement (two pretty distinct areas that often work closely together).
Think back to the pandemic, how did all the food continue to get into the country? How did the vaccines into (and out of) the country and around the world. It was these critical teams that worked on it. So – don’t rule it out. It can pay very well too, and again, is a niche skillset that can take you to almost any company in the world (pretty much every company at certain size needs procurement).
Benefits:
- Development of skills in logistics, supply chain management, and procurement.
- Opportunities to work in various industries, including manufacturing, retail, and healthcare.
- Exposure to global supply chain operations and strategies.
Example Companies:
- DHL: Offers supply chain and logistics apprenticeships, providing hands-on experience in global supply chain management.
- Unilever: Provides apprenticeships in procurement and supply chain management, offering comprehensive training and career development.
- Amazon: Offers apprenticeships in operations and supply chain management, providing opportunities to work with advanced logistics technologies.
What you’ll learn:
- Supply chain management and logistics.
- Procurement and supplier management.
- Operations management and process optimization.
Career prospects: Graduates can pursue careers as supply chain managers, procurement specialists, or logistics coordinators in various industries. The continuous growth in global trade ensures a high demand for skilled professionals.
For more information you can review the standard here: https://www.instituteforapprenticeships.org/apprenticeship-standards/senior-procurement-and-supply-chain-professional-v1-0
Sales Apprenticeship
Why it’s great: Sales apprenticeships are ideal for those with strong communication skills and an interest in business development, providing opportunities to build a successful career in sales and marketing.
EVERY substantial business (aside from research institutions and the like) has a sales team. Not just has them, requires them to survive. If you can sell, you will never be out of work. The return on investment for a company is pretty simple. If you bring in more money than you cost, generally you are safe in a job. If you do well, you have great leverage to negotiate pay-rises, and you don’t necessarily need to wait a set number of years to get promoted. It’s the purest form of meritocracy (at least, in theory).
Benefits:
- Development of skills in sales techniques, customer relationship management, and negotiation.
- Opportunities for rapid career progression and high earning potential.
- Experience with top companies and brands.
Example Companies:
- Microsoft: Offers apprenticeships in sales and business development, providing hands-on experience in technology sales.
- Salesforce: Provides apprenticeships in sales and customer relationship management, offering comprehensive training and career development.
- Nestlé: Offers apprenticeships in sales and marketing, providing opportunities to work with a leading global brand.
Again – pretty much every company you can think of. Think about what you want to sell, it’s much easier if you like your product.
What you’ll learn:
- Sales techniques and strategies.
- Customer relationship management.
- Business development and negotiation skills.
Career prospects: Graduates can pursue careers as sales executives, account managers, or business development managers in various industries. The continuous need for business growth ensures a high demand for skilled sales professionals.
More information about the business to business sales standard: https://www.instituteforapprenticeships.org/apprenticeship-standards/business-to-business-sales-professional-integrated-degree-v1-0
AI Robotics Engineering Apprenticeship(s)
We’eve been hearing lots about the software side of AI, but robotics engineers are going to be helping to create the physical future. What that looks like you only need to look at companies like Boston Dynamics.
If you want be a creator of the future, this could very much be a career worth considering. There is a degree level, and MSc level apprentice so you could be funded all the way through to a Masters degree.
Why it’s great: AI Robotics Engineering apprenticeships are perfect for those fascinated by robotics, artificial intelligence, and automation, offering opportunities to work on innovative projects.
Benefits:
- Involvement in cutting-edge research and development.
- Opportunities to work in various sectors, including manufacturing, healthcare, and technology.
- Development of skills in robotics, AI, and machine learning.
Example Companies:
- ABB: Offers apprenticeships in robotics engineering, providing hands-on experience with industrial automation and robotics.
- Boston Dynamics: Provides apprenticeships in robotics and AI, offering opportunities to work on advanced robotic systems.
- Siemens: Offers apprenticeships in automation and robotics engineering, providing comprehensive training and career development.
What you’ll learn:
- Robotics design and engineering.
- Artificial intelligence and machine learning algorithms.
- Automation systems and control technologies.
Career prospects: Graduates can pursue careers as robotics engineers, AI specialists, or automation engineers in various industries. The rapid advancements in robotics and AI ensure numerous opportunities for career growth.
More information below:
Robotics Engineer Standard: https://www.instituteforapprenticeships.org/apprenticeship-standards/robotics-engineer-degree-v1-1
Degree Advanced Robotics Engineer Masters: https://www.instituteforapprenticeships.org/apprenticeship-standards/advanced-robotics-engineer-v1-0
Shipping Apprenticeships
I had a friend a few years ago decided to do a Masters in Shipping, at the time I was a bit surprised claiming it be a bit of a “random” move. However, with time gone by, and a few global crises the whole industry has demonstrated how important it is. If you are looking for a job that won’t be replaced by AI, shipping is likely to be it. We are a long way from letting tankers run without a single human onboard.
Why it’s great: Shipping apprenticeships are ideal for those interested in maritime operations, logistics, and international trade, providing opportunities to work in the global shipping industry.
Benefits:
- Development of skills in maritime operations and logistics.
- Opportunities to work in various roles, including shipping management, logistics coordination, and maritime engineering.
- Exposure to international trade and global shipping operations.
Example Companies:
- Maersk: Offers apprenticeships in shipping and logistics, providing hands-on experience in global maritime operations.
- CMA CGM: Provides apprenticeships in maritime logistics and shipping management, offering comprehensive training and career development.
- P&O Ferries: Offers apprenticeships in maritime engineering and operations, providing opportunities to work on passenger and cargo ships.
What you’ll learn:
- Maritime operations and logistics.
- Shipping management and international trade.
- Maritime engineering and safety regulations.
Career prospects: Graduates can pursue careers as shipping managers, logistics coordinators, or maritime engineers in the global shipping industry. The continuous growth in international trade ensures a high demand for skilled professionals.
Transport Planner Apprenticeships
Why it’s great: Transport Planner apprenticeships are perfect for those interested in urban planning, transportation systems, and infrastructure development, providing opportunities to work on important public and private projects.
Transport systems are only going to need more creative thinking as population grows across the country, and around the world. There is an argument to me made for moving somewhere that might be doing transport better than the UK if you want to get on. Imagine if you could be the person that design a more cost-effective way of transporting our population around the country. This could have an outsized impact on areas such as climate change.
Benefits:
- Involvement in the planning and development of transportation systems.
- Opportunities to work with government agencies, consulting firms, and transportation companies.
- Development of skills in urban planning, transportation engineering, and project management.
Example Companies:
- Arup: Offers apprenticeships in transport planning, providing hands-on experience in urban transportation projects.
- AECOM: Provides apprenticeships in transportation engineering and planning, offering comprehensive training and career development.
- Transport for London: Offers apprenticeships in transport planning and operations, providing opportunities to work on major infrastructure projects.
What you’ll learn:
- Transportation planning and engineering.
- Urban planning and infrastructure development.
- Project management and regulatory compliance.
Career prospects: Graduates can pursue careers as transport planners, urban planners, or transportation engineers in various industries. The continuous development of urban infrastructure ensures a high demand for skilled professionals.
Transport Planner (Integrated Degree): https://www.instituteforapprenticeships.org/apprenticeship-standards/transport-planner-integrated-degree-v1-1