The best paying apprenticeship sectors in 2025

From banking and engineering to accountancy and law, launch your career with one of the highest paying apprenticeships in the UK

If you're seeking a well-paid apprenticeship in the UK, you'll find a range of options, including degree apprenticeships that combine a salary with valuable training and experience. By carefully researching your choices and selecting an apprenticeship in a high-demand industry, you can set yourself on a path to a promising career.

It's important to note that salary ranges vary greatly depending on the specific apprenticeship, employer, location, and individual's experience and performance.

For more information, see what is an apprenticeship? 

Engineering apprenticeships

Average salary: £28,500

Engineering is a diverse industry with a high demand for skilled professionals. Degree apprenticeships in engineering offer a unique blend of practical experience and theoretical knowledge, with competitive salaries on offer. 

Apprenticeships typically last three to four years and combine on-the-job training with academic study. Apprentices learn about the different aspects of engineering, such as: 

• mechanical engineering 
• civil engineering 
• electrical engineering 
• software engineering.  

They also gain practical skills such as designing and building products, troubleshooting and repairing equipment, and using engineering software. 

Salaries range from £20,000 to £35,000 at leading engineering firms, such as Rolls-Royce, Airbus and MBDA. With experience and qualifications, engineers can progress to more senior roles, earning salaries of £50,000 or more. 

Here are some examples of the specific types of engineering apprenticeships available: 

• aerospace 
• automotive 
• civil 
• electrical
• energy
• manufacturing
• mechanical
• software.

To qualify for an engineering apprenticeship, you'll usually require a minimum of five GCSEs, including English and maths. Some engineering firms may also require you to have A-levels or a relevant degree. 

Explore our guide to engineering apprenticeships.

Transport and logistics

Average salary: £27,000 

The transport and logistics sector is a vital part of the UK economy, contributing significantly to the economy and employing millions of people. As the industry is constantly evolving with advancements in technology, such as automation, artificial intelligence, and data analytics, leading to increased efficiency and innovation, apprentices are in demand in a variety of roles. 

Apprenticeships in entry-level roles such as warehouse operative or driver may start with pay close to the National Minimum Wage (NMW) for apprentices, which is currently £6.40 per hour.  

Higher apprenticeships often offer competitive starting salaries in roles such as: 

• logistics planning 
• transport management 
• heavy goods vehicle (HGV) driving. 

Consider exploring vacancies at firms like National Highways, Network Rail, or FirstGroup, where you could earn a starting salary of between £18,000 and £50,000 per year as an apprentice. 

Once qualified, salaries in this sector frequently surpass the national average. For instance, the average salary for a transport operations officer currently stands at £45,500. 

See transport apprenticeships for more details. 

Accounting apprenticeships

Average salary: £25,000

Accounting offers excellent apprenticeship opportunities, providing strong job security and generous compensation. The sector offers numerous opportunities to learn from experienced professionals while earning a competitive salary. 

Accounting apprenticeships typically last two to four years, with salaries starting at around £25,000. You'll learn: 

• bookkeeping 
• taxation 
• auditing 
• preparing financial statements 
• drafting reports 
• using accounting software. 

'Big Four' accounting firms, like EY, Deloitte, and KPMG, offer apprenticeships with starting salaries ranging from £20,000 to £30,000. These firms also provide opportunities for rapid career growth. 

In addition to the competitive salary, accounting apprentices also benefit from: 

• access to high-profile clients and projects 
• excellent training and development opportunities 
• the chance to work with a team of highly skilled and experienced professionals 
• the potential for international travel and assignments. 

To apply for an accounting apprenticeship, visit the websites of the firms you are interested in working for, where you can find information about the application process and the apprenticeship schemes on offer. 

Read more about accounting apprenticeships. 

Banking and finance apprenticeships

Average salary: £25,000 

The banking sector offers some of the most sought-after apprenticeships 

Banking apprenticeships typically span two to three years, during which you'll delve into various areas of banking, including: 

• customer service 
• retail banking 
• corporate banking 
• investment banking.  

Additionally, apprentices will acquire skills in: 

•  overseeing customer accounts 
• handling loan and mortgage processes 
• providing guidance to customers on financial products and services. 

Major banks, such as HSBC, Barclays, and Lloyds Banking Group, offer apprenticeships with starting salaries ranging from £20,000 to £30,000. These firms also provide apprentices the opportunity to earn bonuses and promotions, enabling them to earn significantly more than other apprentices. 

Specific banking apprenticeships may focus on: 

• retail banking 
• corporate banking 
• investment banking 
• risk management 
• financial planning 
• compliance. 

To qualify for a banking apprenticeship, you will generally be expected to have at least five GCSEs, including English and maths. Certain banks might also require A-levels or a relevant degree. 

Upon successful completion of an apprenticeship, bankers can expect to earn a starting salary of around £25,000 to £30,000. With experience and the right skills, bankers can advance to higher-paying positions, earning salaries of £50,000 or more. 

Discover the best banking apprenticeships in 2025. 

Law apprenticeships

Average salary: £24,000

With a law apprenticeship, you can earn a starting salary of £15,000 to £25,000 per year. In addition, law apprentices also benefit from other advantages, including: 

• on-the-job training from experienced lawyers 
• the opportunity to work on real-world cases 
• a chance to network with other professionals in the legal industry. 
• a qualification leading to a successful career as a solicitor or barrister. 

Law apprenticeships combine academic study with practical training to prepare you for a career in law. Over three to six years, you'll learn about different areas of law and develop essential skills such as drafting legal documents, negotiating settlements, and representing clients.  

For information about salaries, exams, and entry requirements, see law apprenticeships. 

IT apprenticeships

Average salary: £21,000 

The digital age has solidified the IT sector as a hub of career possibilities. Apprenticeships in this field offer a chance to work with cutting-edge technologies while earning a substantial income. 

General IT and technology apprenticeships typically span two to four years. During this time, apprentices gain a comprehensive understanding of various aspects of technology, including: 

• software development 
• web development 
• network engineering 
• cybersecurity.  

Apprentices also develop practical skills, such as: 

• using programming languages 
• designing and developing software applications 
• configuring and managing computer networks. 

Top tech companies, including CGI, BAE Systems, and Babcock International Group, offer competitive apprenticeships with starting salaries ranging from £16,000 to £25,000. These companies often provide additional benefits to apprentices, such as stock options and professional development opportunities. 

Here are a few examples of IT and technology apprenticeships: 

• software developer 
• web developer 
• network developer 
• cybersecurity specialist 
• cloud computing specialist 
• data analyst 
• machine learning engineer 
• artificial intelligence engineer 

Get more information on IT apprenticeships. 

Find out more

• Consider whether you should go to university or do an apprenticeship.
• Discover graduate schemes.
• Search all apprenticeships.