There’s no doubt that apprenticeships offer structured career pathways from entry-level positions to senior leadership roles. But with so many different levels of apprenticeships available, choosing the right one can be challenging.
With the help of Damar Training, this blog will explain what each apprenticeship level entails and how to select the most appropriate option for your career goals or business needs.
What are the different levels of apprenticeships?
To help you navigate the world of apprenticeships, the UK government has established a clear system of levels which align with familiar educational qualifications. These levels help to define the complexity of the role, the depth of knowledge required, and the level of responsibility the apprentice will undertake.
Here’s a quick glance at the different levels of apprenticeships:
- Foundation and intermediate apprenticeships (level 2)
- Advanced apprenticeships (level 3)
- Higher apprenticeships (levels 4 and 5)
- Degree-level apprenticeships (levels 6 and 7)
The apprenticeship system
The English apprenticeship system creates clear progression routes that develop knowledge, skills, and behaviours across increasing levels of complexity. Each level builds upon the previous one, incorporating greater responsibility, expertise, and technical ability.
This structured approach ensures apprentices receive targeted training for their chosen career path while providing employers with workers who possess industry-specific skills.
Level 2: Foundation and intermediate apprenticeships
Foundation apprenticeships
Foundation apprenticeships represent the government’s newest initiative, offering basic entry routes for young people into employment. These eight-month programs will launch in August 2025, initially covering construction, care, digital, and engineering sectors.
Intermediate apprenticeships
Academic equivalent: Five GCSE passes (grades 9-4).
Who they’re for: Industry newcomers with little to no relevant experience. Intermediate apprenticeships provide essential foundational skills and knowledge for entry-level roles. Apprentices develop both industry-specific capabilities and transferable skills like problem-solving and communication.
Examples include:
- Customer service practitioner
- Accounts or finance assistant
- Food and beverage team worker
- Early years practitioner
Level 3: Advanced apprenticeships
Academic equivalent: Two A-level passes.
Who they’re for: Those who have completed Level 2 or possess equivalent experience.
Advanced apprenticeships represent a significant step up in complexity and responsibility. Apprentices develop specialised skills within specific occupational areas and take on more challenging work.
Examples include:
Levels 4 and 5: Higher apprenticeships
Academic equivalent: First year of university (Level 4) or foundation degree (Level 5).
Who they’re for: Professionals seeking specialised skills and career advancement within their field. Higher apprenticeships combine high-level academic study with practical work experience. Apprentices develop specialised technical skills that enable career progression to advanced professional levels. Some programs include additional qualifications such as Higher National Diplomas.
Assessment methods become more sophisticated at this level, incorporating research projects and comprehensive practical evaluations that demonstrate real-world application of learning.
Examples include:
- Data protection and information governance practitioner
- Professional accounting technician
- Operations manager
Levels 6 and 7: Degree-level apprenticeships
Academic equivalent: Bachelor’s degree (Level 6) or master’s degree (Level 7)
Who they’re for: Established professionals aiming for senior leadership or highly specialised technical roles. Some apprentices obtain formal degrees as part of their program.
At these levels, workplace responsibilities include leading complex projects, driving innovation, solving intricate problems, and contributing to strategic organisational decision-making.
Examples include:
- Solicitor
- Social researcher
- Youth worker
Important note: From January 1, 2026, individuals aged 22 and over will no longer receive funding for Level 7 apprenticeships.
Choosing the right level of apprenticeship
Sabina Adam, recruitment co-ordinator at Damar Training, says:
“When I’m talking to individuals, they can get overly caught up in the number associated with the apprenticeship level. They think that because they already have level 3 qualifications, that means they should be able to start at level 4 for their apprenticeship, but academic qualifications and apprenticeships are different. Having A-Levels doesn’t mean that you necessarily have the capability or the opportunity to perform within a level 4 role.”
Selecting the appropriate apprenticeship level, therefore, requires carefully evaluating both the role requirements and the individual’s background. Here’s how the different levels of apprenticeships can affect your organisation:
Level 2 apprenticeships
Best for: Entry-level roles with limited responsibility and routine activities.
Candidate profile: Industry newcomers without relevant qualifications.
Levels 3-4 apprenticeships
Best for: Roles involving moderate responsibility and complex activities.
Candidate profile: Individuals with some experience and qualifications.
Levels 5-7 apprenticeships
Best for: Roles requiring significant technical expertise or leadership responsibility.
Candidate profile: Experienced professionals seeking career advancement.
The key is matching the apprenticeship level to both the complexity of the role and the apprentice’s existing capabilities.
Let Damar guide you through your apprenticeship journey
At Damar, we conduct a thorough initial assessment to gain a full picture of the role requirements, organisational objectives and apprentice’s starting point. With out extensive history of apprenticeships, we ensure that apprentices are put on the right programme at the right level.
If you’re considering apprenticeships for your team, but are unsure which apprenticeship and what level is most appropriate, please get in touch for further advice and guidance.
Frequently asked questions:
How do I choose the right apprenticeship level for my organisation’s needs?
Choosing the right apprenticeship level for your organisation’s needs is a decision that will significantly impact your workforce development, productivity, and talent pipeline. We would recommend defining your job role and business needs, considering future progression, and addressing the current skillset of your team.
What entry requirements are needed for different levels of apprenticeships?
Entry requirements vary by level, training provider and employer. Typically, level 2 apprenticeships don’t require any formal academic requirements, but a keen interest and readiness to learn are essential. Level 3 to 5 apprenticeships may require GCSEs, other recognised qualifications, as well as workplace experience. Levels 6 and 7 are the most advanced apprenticeships, where more significant qualifications and experience are typically required.
How do the different levels of apprenticeships affect funding?
Whilst the costs of the apprenticeship training vary by level and apprenticeship standard, the funding schemes are consistent. Levy-paying employers use funds from their levy pots, while for SMEs and non-levy paying employers, apprenticeships are fully funded by the government for apprentices up to the age of 21 and 95% funded for those aged 22 and over.
The only difference is for level 7: From 1 January 2026, levy pots and government funding is only available for apprentices up to the age of 21. There is no funding for apprentices aged 22 and over.