The loan system for new university students in England. You repay 9% of your income over £25,000 a year, and anything left is written off after 40 years. Apprentices don't need one, because they don't pay tuition fees.
A postgraduate degree, one level above a bachelor's, at Level 7 (SCQF Level 11 in Scotland). Some Level 7 apprenticeships include one, but many lead to a professional qualification instead.
Engineering that combines mechanical, electrical and computer systems, like automated machinery. Amazon and Rolls-Royce both run mechatronics apprenticeships.
A health check some employers need before you start, especially for safety-critical roles. Network Rail's application advice says successful Level 3 engineering candidates must attend one.
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.