How to become an apprentice in 5 easy steps
Apprenticeships are a fantastic way for people to get their foot in the door and start a new career. They provide individuals with the opportunity to gain real-world experience and skills while studying for a qualification, finishing an apprenticeship with both experience and formal training.
The process to becoming an apprentice cannot be simpler. For National Apprenticeship Week Inspire ATA are breaking down how to become an apprentice in 5 Easy steps.
How to become an apprentice
The steps to becoming an apprentice and very similar to the steps of applying to university or starting a new job.
Step 1: choose your ideal career path
Think about what interests you, what job you see yourself doing in the future. Focus on your passions, your interests, and what you are good at.
Step 2: research roles you are interested in
Once you have chosen your career path, start looking online in job boards of the types of roles that exist within it. Shortlist a few roles that look interesting to you, and research what type of experience and qualifications you’d need for it.
Step 3: find an apprenticeship in the sector
After identifying the qualifications you need, search online for apprenticeships for these qualifications. For example, if you are interested in teaching, you will find that teaching assistants often require a Level 3 Teaching Assistant qualification, and so searching online “Level 3 Teaching Assistant Apprenticeship” will lead you to organisations that offer this apprenticeship programme.
Step 4: apply for the apprenticeship
Apply online to a few of the best apprenticeship options you have found. Some apprenticeship offers are for specific open roles while some are for the programme itself, similar to applying to university, and a job role is found later on.
Apprenticeship applications often include application forms and interviews, very similar to applying for a job.
Step 5: get the job!
Once you have successfully completed your application process and are offered a job, you can begin your apprenticeship journey!
Inspire ATA’s Apprenticeship Opportunities
Inspire ATA is an apprenticeship employment agency that helps connect apprentices with employers. Our website has a range of apprenticeship opportunities on offer to help you find your ideal role.
Published 09/02/2026
