Wages and Funding for Apprentices
The main draw of becoming an apprentice is the fact that it is possible to earn money while you are training and learning. Combining work with study means apprentices can get the best of both worlds.

It is important that apprentices make sure that they understand what they are entitled to before starting an apprenticeship. Employers will need to pay a salary and give apprentices time off in the same way that they would for any other employee.

While on an apprenticeship it may also be possible to get other funding to help you with transport or childcare costs or supplement a low income.

Wages

Taking home your first pay cheque is a great feeling and one of the best things about starting an apprenticeship. As an apprentice, it is easy to feel that your employer is doing you a favour but an apprentice is an employee and needs to be paid accordingly.

The minimum apprentices can earn is £8.00 per hour (from April 1, 2026) but the best idea is for an apprentice to check what similar jobs are being paid so that wages can be compared. Remember that a fresh apprentice is likely to have less skills than more experienced employees though so wages will be lower.

Funding

There may be grants or funding you can apply for locally or through private funders so ask your college or jobcentre about opportunities that are available.

Benefits

Like anyone who is on a low income, apprentices may be eligible to get benefits from the government. These are in place to help people who do not earn much and it is worth finding out what you may be entitled to.

There are a variety of different benefits available such as housing, council tax or low income allowances. Additionally if apprentices have children they can probably claim Child Benefit or Universal Credit child elements and may be able to get help with childcare costs. Contact your local jobcentre to find out more.

Payrise

Obviously it is not advisable to start asking for a payrise in your first week but as apprentices develop more skills and understanding of the industry it is reasonable to discuss money. Apprenticeships are all about learning and training and this will inevitably make apprentices better at their job and more valuable to the company.

Employers should be open to discussing wages if the apprentice can prove their commitment, development and value. Apprentices should offer solid examples of how they improved and why they have become more important to the company. Be reasonable about any requests and see if both parties can leave feeling satisfied.

Apprentices are taking a big step towards gaining skills and qualifications that will help their careers and deserve to be paid reasonably while they are training. Employers should offer competitive wages and be willing to discuss payrises as apprentices progress. Also, make sure that you check what benefits and funding you may be entitled to on top of your salary.