Your Career. Our Priority.
We’ve all heard of the ‘earn while you learn’ concept when talking about the benefits of apprenticeships. The idea that you can earn money in a full-time role while also gaining a valuable qualification in a field which you are looking to start a career in. But with that benefit, the major sticking point we always hear from learners potentially looking to get into apprenticeships is that apprenticeship wages are just too low.
So, let’s talk about it.
In 2024, the average wages for Level 3 apprentices in accountancy and marketing roles in the UK hover around £6 to £8 per hour. While this is indeed low compared to the national average wage, especially for full-time employees, it’s important to consider the broader benefits of an apprenticeship, as opposed to working a full-time job.
For school leavers, an apprenticeship route can be particularly advantageous as it provides the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in a chosen field, often leading to better job prospects in the future.
While the initial wages may be lower than those of entry-level jobs, apprentices are essentially being paid to learn, with the added benefit of gaining recognised qualifications that can significantly boost their career trajectory.
Moreover, many apprentices find that their wages increase as they progress through their apprenticeship, with most learners even securing permanent roles within their companies at higher pay rates upon completion.
In accountancy, newly qualified professionals can expect to earn between £20,000 and £30,000 per year, depending on their location and the size of the company. With further experience and additional qualifications, such as progressing to Level 4 or becoming a chartered accountant, salaries can rise significantly, with experienced accountants earning upwards of £50,000 to £60,000 annually.
In marketing, entry-level positions post-apprenticeship typically offer salaries ranging from £18,000 to £25,000 per year. As marketing professionals gain more experience and possibly specialise in areas throughout their career, salaries often reach £30,000 to £45,000. Senior roles, particularly in larger companies or agencies, can offer salaries exceeding £50,000.
Unlike traditional university routes, where tuition fees and living costs can lead to substantial debt, the costs of training and assessment for an apprentice are typically covered by the employer and government funding. You can learn more about how the apprenticeship levy works with our blog post here.
For school leavers, this means starting their careers without the financial strain that often comes with university education. With tuition fees in the UK averaging around £9,250 per year, and additional costs for accommodation and living expenses, students can graduate with debts exceeding £40,000. In contrast, apprentices not only avoid this debt but also begin earning immediately, which can make a significant difference in their financial stability and future planning.
In April 2024, the minimum wage for apprentices was increased to £5.28 per hour, a slight increase from the previous rate. This applies to apprentices under 19, or those aged 19 and over but in the first year of their apprenticeship. After the first year, apprentices are entitled to the national minimum wage for their age group, which ranges from £7.49 to £10.42 per hour depending on their age.
So, overall, while the starting wages for apprentices might not be as high as those in some entry-level jobs, the combination of earning, learning, and gaining a qualification can make apprenticeships a great option. For many school leavers, this pathway offers a viable way to build a career without the financial burden of student loans, making it a smart investment in their future.
