Higher Apprenticeships
A Higher Apprenticeship combines a job with learning, so you earn a wage while developing your skills. Based in the workplace and working alongside experienced staff, higher apprentices can build skills and experience in engineering / advanced manufacturing.
HAs are ideal for those who have completed a level 3 Engineering and Manufacturing Apprenticeship or have achieved A Levels in STEM subjects and wish to progress to level 4 (equivalent to Higher Education) and to level 6 (equivalent to degree level).
Semta works closely with employers to develop HAs, ensuring they are embedded in the workplace, industry relevant. This ensures that they provide higher apprentices with the training they need to become an expert in their field.
What does it involve?
Higher apprentices will spend the majority of their time in the workplace with the remaining time spent at a college or university. This ensures that, as a higher apprentice, you develop the necessary advanced competency skills in a workplace environment whilst also building your theoretical knowledge.
An average Higher Apprenticeship can take three to four years to complete depending on the level of the qualification. The standard pay offered is a national minimum wage, however, many employers will pay higher apprentices more than other apprentices. The HA could lead to a permanent job offer afterwards.
What are the entry requirements for a Higher Apprenticeship?

Entry Requirements
The entry requirements may differ depending on the level of the HA. Generally HAs are open to you if you are:
- 18 years old and over
- have already completed an Advanced Apprenticeship or
- have a minimum of two A-levels.
Employers may take into account previous work experience or other relevant criteria if you don’t match the above.