Modern Apprenticeships in Scotland
Modern Apprenticeships help people gain industry recognised qualifications while working in a real job. In Scotland, they are designed to support employers with building skilled workforces while giving individuals the opportunity to earn, learn and develop practical experience at the same time. Information and funding are overseen by Skills Development Scotland.
Who we work with
What is a Modern Apprenticeship?
A Modern Apprenticeship is a work based training programme in Scotland that combines employment with structured learning. Apprentices are employed by a business, receive a salary, and work towards a nationally recognised qualification relevant to their role.
Modern Apprenticeships are available across a wide range of sectors including digital technology, business administration, engineering, healthcare, construction, financial services and hospitality. The programme enables individuals to develop job specific skills while contributing to their employer from day one.
Who can hire a modern apprentice?
Any employer based in Scotland can hire a modern apprentice, regardless of the size of their organisation. This includes private businesses, public sector organisations, charities and third sector employers.
Employers must be able to provide a genuine job role, appropriate support, and opportunities for the apprentice to develop the skills required within the apprenticeship framework. Many organisations use Modern Apprenticeships to address skills shortages, improve productivity and support workforce planning.
Who can become a modern apprentice?
Modern Apprenticeships are open to individuals aged 16 and over who have the right to live and work in Scotland. They are suitable for school leavers, career changers, existing employees looking to develop new skills, and people returning to work.
Entry requirements vary depending on the apprenticeship and industry sector. Some programmes may require specific qualifications, while others focus on an individual's aptitude and willingness to learn.
What types of apprenticeships are available
Scotland offers Modern Apprenticeships across a broad range of industries and qualification levels, with over 100 different Modern Apprenticeship types. Popular areas include:
- Digital and AI
- Data and analytics
- Cyber security
- Business and administration
- Engineering and manufacturing
- Health and social care
The qualification level and duration will vary depending on the occupation and apprenticeship framework.
Cost and funding
How much does a Modern Apprenticeship cost employers?
The cost of a Modern Apprenticeship varies depending on the apprenticeship framework, the apprentice's age and the level of funding available. In many cases, a significant proportion of the training costs is funded, helping to reduce the overall investment required from employers.
Employers are responsible for paying their apprentice's wages and providing ongoing workplace support throughout the programme. Apprentices must be paid at least the applicable National Minimum Wage for apprentices (which is currently £8 in 2026), although many employers choose to pay more to attract and retain talent.
Alongside salary costs, employers should also consider factors such as supervision, mentoring and the time needed to support workplace learning.
How Modern Apprenticeship funding works?
Funding for Modern Apprenticeships in Scotland is provided through Skills Development Scotland. Funding is paid to support the delivery of training and assessment. The level of apprenticeship funding available can vary depending on factors such as age, sector and qualification level.
Employers typically work with an approved training provider to access any available funding and ensure the apprenticeship meets all programme requirements. Get in touch with us now to explore your training options.
Frequently asked questions
Who is eligible for a Modern Apprenticeship in Scotland?
Anyone aged 16 or over who has the right to live and work in Scotland can typically apply for a Modern Apprenticeship, subject to any specific programme requirements
How are Scottish apprenticeships funded?
Apprenticeships are funded by the Scottish government and administered by Skills Development Scotland through direct contracts between employers and training providers. As the top training provider for digital and tech apprenticeships in Scotland, QA provides training for around 1,000 apprentices per year.
How long does a Modern Apprenticeship take?
Most Modern Apprenticeships take between 1 to 4 years to complete, depending on the qualification level and occupation.
How much should I pay my apprentice?
The average salary for a computing or IT apprentice in Scotland is £17,000 per annum.
With the average post-degree student debt in Scotland running at £14,000, an apprenticeship paying £17,000 pa is an extremely attractive proposition for young people considering their future careers. Download our salary brochure for more information
How does QA support employers?
QA's Scotland Apprenticeships Employers portal contains all the information you need to guide and support your and your apprentices through their programme, including guidance on progress monitoring, wellbeing, safeguarding, and information on our feedback process.
What is the difference between a Modern Apprenticeship and a Foundation Apprenticeship?
A Modern Apprenticeship is a paid job that combines employment with training. A Foundation Apprenticeship is typically undertaken while still at school and gives learners experience of a specific industry before entering full time employment.
What are the benefits of hiring an apprentice in Scotland?
There are many benefits of hiring an apprentice, including government funding, the ability to build your talent pipeline and injecting a learning culture into your business. Here are the top five reasons to hire an apprentice into your business.
How are Scottish apprenticeships assessed?
Apprentices are supported throughout their journey with regular check ins every five weeks. Apprenticeships with QA average 10-18 months and on successful completion candidates receive a nationally recognised qualification at SCQF Level 6 or 8.
Can employers influence apprenticeship training?
Employers significantly influence the design and priorities of Scotland’s skills, training, and employability system.
The Scottish Apprenticeship Advisory Board (SAAB), led by employers and industry representatives, ensures that apprenticeships align with industry needs, fair work principles, and job opportunities.
How do I employ an apprentice in Scotland
QA has decades of experience in connecting organisations with the right talent to fill their skills gaps.
Choose a programme that aligns to your business needs
QA will work alongside you to identify which apprenticeship best suits your requirements.
Connect with QA to deliver your training
We’re experts in helping you and your apprentice get the most out of their training.
Once you’ve selected the perfect apprenticeship programme to fit your needs, we take care of the rest.
Let QA advertise your apprenticeship position
Advertising is a time-consuming internal task, but don’t worry - we’re experts at finding talent with the right aptitude and attitude, who will be a great culture fit for your organisation.
Take a look at our Recruitment Services Guide and let us take care of it all.
Interview the best candidates
Our expert candidate attraction team take care of sourcing and screening candidates to find the best fit for your business.
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If you're an individual interested in starting an apprenticeship, find out more here
