Let’s imagine you ask someone what their job is, and they say ‘tech entrepreneur.’ It’s one of the most envy-inducing jobs out there (but not the coolest – that title goes to astronauts!).
A technology apprenticeship is a popular pathway for getting your foot in the door of jobs in this broad field. In this guide, we’ll explain exactly what a technology apprenticeship is, the different types and where you can find the right opportunity for you.
The basics: What is a technology apprenticeship, and can it help you get a real job in tech?
We’re not in the 1980s anymore – for your parents’ generation, ‘tech’ meant knowing how to work a computer. Since then, the scope of the tech sector has become huge, and you could become anything from a cybersecurity analyst to a network engineer or a backend developer.
A technology apprenticeship means you’ll be employed by a company (yep, earning a salary) while simultaneously studying towards a nationally recognised qualification, which could even be a full university degree. It’s an earn-while-you-learn situation, meaning you get the best of both worlds.
Many students choose technology apprenticeships because they gain valuable practical skills that go far beyond the theory work you focus on during a traditional university degree. By the time you complete the course, you’ll have a CV packed with technical abilities and professional skills – and nice savings with no student debt.
Types of technology apprenticeships
Software developer apprenticeships
You’ll learn to code and build software apps. It involves frontend (user interface), backend (server-side logic) or full-stack development using languages like Python, Java, JavaScript, C#, or C++. When you’re done with the apprenticeship, you’ll be proficient in all sorts of best practices in software development.
Cybersecurity apprenticeships
Apprentices in this field learn to protect computer systems and data from cyber threats. You might also dip your toe in security tools and strategies, such as security analysis, incident response, ethical hacking and compliance-related stuff.
Data analyst/scientist apprenticeships
Data is the new oil. If you’re great at analytical and problem-solving skills, data analyst or data scientist apprenticeships could be the perfect route for you. These apprenticeships teach you how to use strategies like machine learning to make sense of large bits of data.
Cloud computing apprenticeships
Cloud specialists manage applications and infrastructure on major cloud platforms, such as Amazon Web Services (AWS), Microsoft Azure, or Google Cloud Platform (GCP). You’ll gain practical experience in stuff like cloud architecture and security.
Entry requirements
Firstly, let’s talk academics. Most apprenticeship recruiters look for around five GCSEs (grades 4-9), usually including English, maths and science. A technical subject with transferable skills, such as IT or computer science, is a big bonus for your CV.
But it’s not just school stuff that employers are interested in. They’ll want to know about your soft skills, so make sure you mention some of these in your application:
- Passion and genuine interest in technology
- Problem-solving skills and logical thinking
- Willingness to learn and adapt
- Good communication and teamwork abilities
- Initiative and a proactive attitude
Apprenticeship levels – what they mean for technology apprenticeships
UK apprenticeships are categorised as levels (2-7) based on the experience and qualifications required to apply and those you will earn at the end of the programme. The levels are as follows:
Level 2 (intermediate) – equivalent to 5 GCSEs (grades 9 to 4).
Level 3 (advanced) – equivalent to 2 A-levels.
Rolls-Royce is a hot choice for Level 3 apprenticeships in engineering and technology.
Levels 4 and 5 (higher) – equivalent to a foundation degree.
Transport for London’s Level 4 cyber security and software development apprenticeships are highly popular. Take a look at Lloyds Bank and NatWest, too.
Levels 6 and 7 (degree).
Did you know you can earn a full bachelor’s or master’s degree with an apprenticeship? A Level 6 or Level 7 apprenticeship means you can earn a degree while working – so, learn while you earn. You’ll get the same qualification without the steep university fees.
Sky’s Level 6 opportunity gives you insights into the latest AI and machine learning tech, and you’ll qualify with a full BSc in Digital Technical Solutions if you choose HSBC’s apprenticeship. KPMG offers a similar opportunity, enabling you to earn a BSc (Hons) in Digital and Technology Solutions. Don’t forget about MI5’s various tech apprenticeships, too – yes, that MI5.
Sector spotlight – with some extra tips
Nowadays, every single job and industry incorporates technology into workflows, innovation, daily activities and more. We’ve put together a quick list of jobs and new tech in various industries to help inspire your career plans. Here are a few you’ll know, plus a few that might be new to you:
- Engineering: Comes hand-in-hand with technology. Jobs combining both disciplines include robotics technicians (building robotics systems used in manufacturing processes) and automation engineers (designing automated systems that improve production processes).
- IT: The backbone of every business. Cloud specialists help deploy and monitor services hosted on cloud platforms, while IT support teams provide technical assistance on various everyday issues.
- Software: Where the magic happens – creating the apps, websites and programs we use every day. Under this umbrella, game developers code gameplay mechanics, and frontend developers build the visual and interactive parts of the software.
- Fintech (‘financial technology’): The Monzos and Klarnas of the world. A blockchain developer builds the tech behind cryptocurrencies, and a support technician assists customers in accessing the software or platform.
- Greentech (‘green technology’): All about supporting the environment through innovation. For example, data analysts review energy consumption, and software engineers build systems to track carbon footprints.
A tech career, built your way with an apprenticeship
Whether you want to build the next viral app or contribute to bettering the planet with your data analyst skills, many fascinating jobs involve innovative technology.
Wondering what your next step is? Browse top apprenticeships today to get your first application in the bag.
