Unveiling the 11 Best-Paid Apprenticeships in the UK

Apprenticeships are a fantastic way of gaining industry expertise, knowledge and experience all while getting paid!

Although some apprenticeship wages can be lower than normal wages, some apprenticeships offer salaries that can be considerably high depending on the industry.

If you want to pursue an apprenticeship, here are the best apprenticeships that pay well.

1. Banking & finance apprenticeship

The financial sector is a powerhouse of the economy, making apprenticeships in banking and finance highly sought after. The demand for skilled professionals in this field remains consistently high, so there are always plenty of apprenticeships available. 

Average daily duties: 

• Financial analysis: Analyse financial data for decision support.
• Client services: Manage client relationships and address inquiries.
• Risk management: Identify and assess financial risks.
• Accounting tasks: Contribute to financial reporting and bookkeeping.
• Market research: Monitor financial markets and trends.
• Collaboration: Work closely with team members for efficient operations.
• Regulatory compliance: Ensure adherence to financial regulations.
• Documentation: Prepare financial reports and relevant documentation.
• Technology utilisation: Use financial software for data analysis.
• Continuous learning: Stay informed about industry trends.

Career prospects: Successful completion can lead to roles like a Financial Analyst or Investment Banking Associate plus the finance sector offers diverse opportunities for career progression.

Average salary of apprenticeship: £24,799 per year.

Average industry salary: £53,000

Ideal Candidate: Individuals with a strong analytical mindset, numerical proficiency, and a keen interest in financial markets. If this sounds like you, an apprenticeship in this sector can be a fulfilling path for you.

2. Accountancy & actuarial apprenticeship

The need for skilled accountants and actuaries will always be in high demand across various industries. Accountancy apprenticeships provide a solid foundation for those seeking a career in finance, and the best thing is, you can choose which industry you wish to work in, as almost all industries require finance specialists. 

Average daily duties:

• Financial analysis: Analyse data for decision-making.
• Client interaction: Engage and assist clients.
• Bookkeeping: Enter transactions and maintain records.
• Reporting: Contribute to financial reports.
• Market research: Monitor financial trends.
• Collaboration: Work as part of ateam.
• Regulatory compliance: Ensure compliance with industry regulations.
• Software utilisation: Use financial software.
• Continuous learning: Stay updated on industry trends.
• Admin support: Assist with general tasks.

Career prospects: Completion can lead to roles such as a Chartered Accountant or Actuarial Analyst. The accountancy field offers stability and room for professional growth.

Average salary of apprenticeship: £20,828 per year.

Average industry salary: £35,597

Ideal candidate: Detail-oriented individuals with strong numerical skills and a passion for financial analysis.

3. Energy & utilities apprenticeship

The energy and utilities sectors are vital for powering economies and apprenticeships in this field are crucial to addressing the growing demand for sustainable energy solutions. Many companies are turning to apprenticeships to help develop up and coming skilled professionals in the sector. 

Average daily duties:

• Data analysis: Analyse data for energy system improvements.
• Maintenance support: Assist in energy infrastructure maintenance.
• Renewable energy projects: Contribute to renewable energy initiatives.
• Documentation: Maintain records for energy-related tasks.
• Collaboration: Work with the team for efficient energy operations.
• Sustainability monitoring: Support sustainability initiatives.
• Regulatory compliance: Ensure compliance with energy regulations.
• Technology utilisation: Use tools for energy system data analysis.
• Continuous learning: Stay informed about energy industry developments.
• Administrative support: Assist with general energy-related tasks.

Career prospects: Successful completion can lead to roles like an Energy Analyst or Renewables Energy Engineer. The energy sector offers exciting opportunities for those passionate about sustainability with lots of room for growth and development, and a wide range of industries to work in!

Average salary of apprenticeship: £20,482 per year.

Average industry salary: £39,000 

Ideal candidate: Individuals who like taking an active, hands-on approach to their job role, with an interest in the workings behind providing energy to the UK. 

4. IT & consultancy apprenticeship

You might already know that IT jobs are in high demand, but as the digital age grows into its next chapter, the demand for IT professionals is still rising. IT and consultancy apprenticeships are highly coveted as technology continues to play a pivotal role in business operations.

Average daily duties:

• System support: Provide support for IT systems.
• Software development assistance: Assist in software development tasks.
• Troubleshooting: Identify and address IT issues.
• Documentation: Maintain records for IT and consultancy projects.
• Collaboration: Work with a team for effective IT solutions.
• Client interaction: Engage with clients for IT support.
• Compliance checks: Ensure adherence to IT regulations.
• Technology utilisation: Use IT tools for data analysis and solutions.
• Continuous learning: Stay updated on IT industry trends.
• Administrative support: Assist with general IT and consultancy tasks.

Career prospects: Completion can lead to roles such as an IT Consultant or Software Developer. The IT sector provides ample opportunities for specialisation and career advancement, with global job opportunities.

Average salary of apprenticeship: £19,211 per year.

Average industry salary: £43,465

Ideal candidate: Tech enthusiasts with problem-solving skills, a keen interest in software development, and adaptability to emerging technologies.

5. Insurance, asset & investment management apprenticeship

The insurance and investment management sectors are integral to managing financial risks across various industries. Apprenticeships in this field are in demand as organisations seek skilled professionals to navigate complex financial landscapes.

Average daily duties:

• Risk assessment: Contribute to risk evaluations for insurance and investments.
• Investment analysis: Assist in analysing potential investment opportunities.
• Client services: Engage with clients, providing support for insurance and investments.
• Documentation: Maintain accurate records for insurance and investment transactions.
• Collaboration: Work closely with the team to ensure effective financial services.
• Compliance checks: Ensure adherence to regulations in insurance and investment practices.
• Data analysis: Utilise tools for analysing financial data.
• Continuous learning: Stay updated on industry trends and regulations.
• Administrative support: Assist with general tasks related to insurance and investment management.

Career prospects: Successful completion can lead to roles such as an Insurance Broker or Investment Analyst. 

Average salary of apprenticeship: £18,431 per year.

Average Industry Salary: £36,000

Ideal candidate: Individuals with a keen interest in finance, strong analytical skills, and excellent interpersonal abilities.

6. Business & administration apprenticeship 

Business apprenticeships cater to a wide range of industries depending on which one you choose to work in. The demand for professionals with business acumen is prevalent across many different sectors, as those who are well versed in business knowledge can help keep a business running effectively.

Average daily duties:

• Project support: Assist in project management tasks.
• Market research: Conduct research to support business decisions.
• Administrative tasks: Handle various administrative duties.
• Collaboration: Work closely with the team for efficient business operations.
• Client interaction: Engage with clients to address inquiries and provide support.
• Documentation: Maintain records for business-related projects and tasks.
• Continuous learning: Stay updated on industry trends and business strategies.
• Problem-solving: Contribute to solving business-related challenges.
• Technology utilisation: Use business tools and software for data analysis.
• Communication: Facilitate effective communication within the business team.

Career prospects: Completion can lead to roles such as Business Development Executive or Project Manager. The business field provides diverse opportunities for career growth.

Average salary of apprenticeship: £18,360 per year.

Average industry salary: £50,000

Ideal candidate: Individuals with strong organisational skills, effective communication and a passion for business. This programme is also relevant for individuals who want to become entrepreneurs. 

7. Engineering & manufacturing apprenticeships

The engineering and manufacturing sector is the backbone of innovation and production. Apprenticeships in the engineering field are crucial for developing skilled professionals to drive technological advancements in the future.

Average daily duties:

• Design support: Assist in the design process for products or systems.
• Production assistance: Contribute to manufacturing and production tasks.
• Quality control: Participate in quality assurance processes.
• Documentation: Maintain records for engineering and manufacturing projects.
• Collaboration: Work closely with the team for efficient production.
• Innovation support: Contribute to the development of new technologies.
• Health and safety compliance: Ensure adherence to health and safety regulations.
• Problem-solving: Assist in resolving engineering and manufacturing challenges.
• Continuous learning: Stay updated on industry advancements and technologies.
• Administrative support: Assist with general tasks related to engineering and manufacturing.

Career prospects: Successful completion can lead to roles such as a Mechanical Engineer or Manufacturing Manager. The engineering sector offers opportunities for those interested in hands-on problem-solving and innovation.

Average salary of apprenticeship: £18,298 per year.

Average industry salary: £38,451

Ideal candidate: Individuals with a passion for innovation, strong technical skills, and a desire to contribute to the development of new technologies.

8. Hospitality, leisure & tourism apprenticeships

The hospitality, leisure, and tourism sector contribute significantly to the UK's economy. Being one of the largest industries in the world, the tourism industry has many avenues and paths to work in, so you are sure to find a career that suits you. 

Apprenticeships in this field cater to the growing demand for skilled professionals in the service industry.

Average daily duties:

• Customer service: Provide excellent customer service.
• Event support: Assist in planning and coordinating events.
• Administrative tasks: Handle various administrative duties.
• Collaboration: Work closely with the team for efficient operations.
• Client interaction: Engage with clients to enhance their experience.
• Documentation: Maintain records for hospitality and tourism tasks.
• Health and safety compliance: Ensure adherence to health and safety standards.
• Problem-solving: Contribute to resolving challenges in the hospitality industry.
• Continuous learning: Stay updated on industry trends and customer preferences.
• Service excellence: Uphold high standards of service and guest satisfaction.

Career prospects: Completion can lead to roles such as a Hotel Manager or Event Coordinator. The sector provides opportunities for those who enjoy working in dynamic and customer-oriented environments.

Average salary of apprenticeship: £17,388 per year.

Average industry salary: £23,806

Ideal candidate: Individuals with excellent interpersonal skills, a passion for customer service, and a friendly and approachable demeanour.

9. Construction, real estate & property apprenticeships

The construction and property sectors are pivotal for infrastructure development. Apprenticeships in this field address the demand for skilled professionals in construction, property management, and real estate.

Average daily duties:

• Site support: Assist in site management tasks.
• Project coordination: Contribute to coordinating construction projects.
• Quality assurance: Participate in ensuring quality control in construction.
• Documentation: Maintain records for property-related tasks.
• Collaboration: Work closely with the team for efficient project completion.
• Sustainability initiatives: Support sustainable construction and property development.
• Health and safety compliance: Ensure adherence to health and safety regulations.
• Problem-solving: Contribute to resolving challenges in construction and property projects.
• Continuous learning: Stay updated on industry advancements and regulations.
• Administrative support: Assist with general tasks related to construction and property management.

Career prospects: Successful completion can lead to roles such as a Construction Manager or Property Developer. The sector offers opportunities for those interested in hands-on work and project management.

Average salary of apprenticeship: £17,233 per year.

Average industry salary: £53,000

Ideal candidate: Individuals with a practical mindset, good problem-solving skills, and an interest in construction and property development.

10. Science & pharmaceuticals apprenticeships

The science and pharmaceutical sector are at the forefront of innovation and healthcare. Apprenticeships in this field are crucial for developing professionals to contribute to advancements in medicine and technology.

Average daily duties:

• Laboratory assistance: Assist in laboratory research and experiments.
• Data analysis: Analyse scientific data for research purposes.
• Quality control: Participate in quality assurance processes.
• Documentation: Maintain accurate records for scientific projects.
• Collaboration: Work closely with the team for efficient scientific operations.
• Research and development support: Contribute to the development of pharmaceutical products.
• Health and safety compliance: Ensure adherence to laboratory safety regulations.
• Problem-solving: Assist in resolving scientific challenges.
• Continuous learning: Stay updated on industry advancements and research techniques.
• Administrative support: Assist with general tasks related to scientific and pharmaceutical projects.

Career prospects: Successful completion can lead to roles such as a Research Scientist or Pharmaceutical Analyst. The sector provides opportunities for those interested in scientific research and development.

Average salary of apprenticeship: £16,200 per year.

Average industry salary: £49,708 

Ideal candidate: Individuals with a passion for science, strong analytical skills, and a desire to contribute to advancements in healthcare.

11. Law & solicitor’s apprenticeships

The legal profession is fundamental to upholding justice and maintaining order. Apprenticeships in law and solicitors cater to the demand for legal professionals with practical experience.

• Legal research: Conduct research for cases and legal matters.
• Case management assistance: Assist in managing legal cases.
• Client support: Engage with clients to address inquiries and provide legal assistance.
• Documentation: Maintain accurate records for legal cases.
• Collaboration: Work closely with the legal team for efficient case handling.
• Court proceedings support: Contribute to preparations for court proceedings.
• Regulatory compliance: Ensure adherence to legal regulations and standards.
• Problem-solving: Assist in resolving legal challenges.
• Continuous learning: Stay updated on changes in legal practices and regulations.
• Administrative support: Assist with general tasks related to legal proceedings.

Career prospects: Successful completion can lead to roles such as a Solicitor or Legal Advisor. The legal field offers diverse opportunities for specialisation and career advancement.

Average salary of apprenticeship: £10,400 per year.

Average industry salary: £48,881

Ideal candidate: Individuals with strong analytical and communication skills, a passion for justice, and a commitment to the legal profession.

Apprenticeships with Total People

Here at Total People, we offer apprenticeship schemes for people of all ages.

If you want to get a foot in the door of your dream career, an apprenticeship can be the best way forward, so you can gain knowledge, experience and a qualification.

Check out the sectors we work in Our Apprenticeship Sectors | Total People and our apprenticeship vacancies and enrol today.