Apprenticeships

An apprenticeship offers a unique opportunity to combine practical training with theoretical knowledge, providing a solid foundation for future professional growth.

Whether you’re considering an apprenticeship as a stepping stone to further education, a pathway to employment, or a chance to gain practical skills in your desired field, our comprehensive resources are here to support you throughout your apprenticeship journey.

Apprenticeships in Scotland: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is an apprenticeship in Scotland?

An apprenticeship in Scotland is a job where you earn a wage while gaining recognised qualifications and hands‑on experience. Apprenticeships are delivered by Skills Development Scotland, with employers shaping the training to match industry needs.

2. What types of apprenticeships are available?

Scotland offers three main apprenticeship pathways:

  • Foundation Apprenticeships – for pupils in S5/S6 looking to get real work experience and industry‑recognised qualifications before leaving school.
  • Modern Apprenticeships – paid, on‑the‑job training where people of all ages can earn qualifications while working.
  • Graduate Apprenticeships – degree‑level learning while employed, designed to meet employer demand for high‑level skills.

3. How well supported are apprenticeships in Scotland right now?

The Scottish Government has committed over £100 million in funding for 2025–26 to support Foundation and Modern Apprenticeships, reinforcing their importance in Scotland’s skills system.

Around 400,000 apprenticeship opportunities have been provided since 2008, showing long‑term investment in youth employment and skills.

4. Which sectors in Scotland offer the most apprenticeship opportunities?

The majority of Modern Apprenticeships sit in Scotland’s key growth sectors, with 64% of apprentices in STEM‑related roles and strong demand across industries facing skills shortages.

There are currently more than 40,000 Foundation, Modern and Graduate Apprentices across Scotland.

5. When is Scottish Apprenticeship Week?

Scottish Apprenticeship Week 2026 runs from 2–6 March, with the theme Working for Scotland, celebrating how apprenticeships build careers, support businesses, and strengthen the Scottish economy.

6. What are the benefits of doing an apprenticeship?

  • You earn a wage while gaining qualifications.
  • You learn on the job, gaining real‑world skills.
  • Nine out of ten employers say apprenticeships significantly improve job performance. [stf.org.uk]
  • Many apprentices stay on with their employer — 90% remain employed three months after completion. [stf.org.uk]

7. Who can apply for an apprenticeship?

Apprenticeships are open to a wide range of people, including:

  • school pupils (Foundation Apprenticeships)
  • school leavers
  • career changers
  • adults aged 25+ (with increased opportunities and enhanced funding support for specific groups)

8. How do employers benefit from taking on apprentices?

Apprenticeships help employers:

  • address skills shortages
  • build a talent pipeline
  • improve productivity
  • support diversity and inclusion across the workforce

They’re created by employers, for employers, meaning the training is tailored to real business needs.

9. Where can I find apprenticeship vacancies in Scotland?

You can browse Scottish apprenticeship jobs on s1jobs, with roles across hospitality, retail, engineering, digital, construction and more - helping jobseekers build their future career close to home.

Search Apprenticeships on s1jobs

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Recent Apprenticeship Articles

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