A higher apprenticeship, also classified as a level 4 or 5 apprenticeships, is more advanced (level 3) or intermediate (level 2) than an advanced (level 3) or intermediate (level 2) apprenticeship. Higher apprentices work with a company and gain on-the-job training when pursuing a degree.
If you complete a higher apprenticeship successfully, you will be awarded a level 4 (or higher) competence credential and a knowledge-based certification – a higher national diploma or foundation degree.
Higher apprenticeships are only available to students above the age of 18. However, if you have recently finished your GCSEs, you can think about doing an intermediate or advanced apprenticeship.
After completing an intermediate apprenticeship, you would be eligible to apply for a higher apprenticeship. Completing a higher apprenticeship would either result in a degree apprenticeship or a university degree.
The entry requirements for higher apprenticeships will vary. Many employers, though, need applicants to have at least two A-levels or an advanced apprenticeship.
Higher apprenticeships are designed to train candidates for a particular role within a company. The majority of higher apprenticeships result in a permanent job. So you will still be highly employable even if the company would not appoint you after the apprenticeship or if you want to quit.