Access Apprenticeships
High-quality apprenticeships not only offer young people the opportunity to earn while they learn but also ensure they gain valuable skills and get a foot on the career ladder.
The Sutton Trust Access Apprenticeship programme will allow students to meet leading employers and like-minded peers, and learn more about how to access top apprenticeships.
Over a year, we will be offering you the opportunity to learn more about three different apprenticeship sectors: Banking and Finance (London based), Engineering (Manchester based), and Law (London based).
Register your interest
What the programme offers
Over the year-long programme, you will have the opportunity to gain:
Who can apply
To apply to Access Apprenticeships, you must meet the following criteria:
- Attend, and have always attended, a state-funded, non fee-paying school/college.
- Be in Year 12 (England and Wales), Year 13 (Northern Ireland) or S5 (Scotland) at the start of the programme.
- Live within 90 minutes of London for our Banking and Finance and Law programmes or Manchester for our Engineering programme.
In addition, we are looking for students who:
- Have achieved at least five GCSEs at grades 9 – 6 (A*-B), including English and Maths. A minimum of two of these qualifications should be at grades 9 – 7. Or five A or B grades at National 5 including one A.
- Would be the first generation in their family to gain a degree/degree-level qualification.
- Have been eligible for Free School Meals whilst at secondary school.
- Live in a neighbourhood with a low rate of progression to higher education or a high level of socio-economic deprivation.
- Have attended schools with a lower than average progression to higher education, or a higher than average proportion of students who qualify for Free School Meals.
- Have been looked after or in care.
The more criteria you meet, the more likely you are to get a place on the programme. Not meeting all of the additional criteria will not disqualify you.
How to apply
Applications for Access Apprenticeships are closed!
Register your interest for 2025.
What is an apprenticeship?
An apprenticeship is a post-16 option where you can work and study at the same time. You will be hired by an employer and get paid a salary while you learn. The majority of your time is spent doing on-the-job training and working with colleagues, alongside studying towards a qualification.
Amazing Apprenticeships have put together 8 key facts you need to know about apprenticeships and a rapid read specifically on degree apprenticeships.
What are the benefits?
Increased Confidence
In-Depth Understanding Of Apprenticeships
Improved Application And Professional Skills
Increased Knowledge Of Chosen Sector
Work Experience For Your CV
A Professional Network To Lean On When Looking For Apprenticeship Opportunities
We believe that apprenticeships gives all students (regardless of social or economic background) the opportunity to gain vital work experience and hands-on training.
I found the whole process amazing and so full of information. I love that I got the chance to have a practice interview; all great preparation for my future.
In the CPS, we aim to become an employer of choice for talented individuals from all backgrounds, we believe a diverse workforce will make our organisation stronger. We welcome anyone who has the ability, talent and dedication to flourish into careers in the CPS, so that we are properly representative of the public we serve.
Working with the Sutton Trust enables us to focus and promote the real opportunities available to everyone, regardless of what their background is. We are excited to continue to support the fantastic work the Trust delivers.
Teacher Resources
Are you a teacher interested in promoting this programme to your students?
Check out our page dedicated to all our marketing materials via the link below.
