Apprenticeship glossary

A level

What does A level mean?

An advanced subject qualification usually taken over two years at sixth form or college in England, Wales and Northern Ireland. It sits at Level 3, the same level as an advanced apprenticeship.

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Guide Apprenticeship levels explained Intermediate, advanced, higher and degree apprenticeships: what each level is equivalent to, how many people start at each one, and why employers don't all use the same names. Applies to: England
Advanced apprenticeship
A Level 3 apprenticeship, roughly the same level as A levels. Some employers, like Rolls-Royce, call these 'advanced / modern apprenticeships'.
Intermediate apprenticeship
A Level 2 apprenticeship, roughly the same level as GCSEs. Many don't ask for specific grades.
Level
How advanced an apprenticeship's qualification is. In England, Wales and Northern Ireland they run from Level 2 (like GCSEs) to Level 7 (like a master's degree). Scotland uses SCQF levels instead.
Sixth form
The last two years of school (Years 12 and 13 in England and Wales), usually studying A levels or equivalents. Lots of people apply for apprenticeships during sixth form.
T Level
A two-year course in England, roughly equivalent to three A levels, that mixes classroom study with an industry placement. Some employers accept T Levels for their higher-level apprenticeships.
Foundation degree
A qualification at Level 5, below a full bachelor's degree. Most of Northern Ireland's Higher Level Apprenticeships are at this level.

Definitions are our own plain-English summaries. Where we give figures, they come from the official sources listed on the linked guide or profile. Rules can change, so check the official source before you make decisions.