Apprentice wage rate increase – taking on an apprentice

21 April, 2022

The apprentice wage rate increased in April. Along with confirmation of the new rates, here’s a few handy resources showing apprentice rights and the various roles and responsibilities throughout the apprenticeship process.

The apprentice wage rate is now £4.81. These are current minimum wage rates:

April 2022

  • 23 and over: £9.50
  • 21 to 22: £9.18
  • 18 to 20: £6.83
  • Under 18: £4.81
  • Apprentice: £4.81

Apprentices are entitled to the apprentice rate if they’re either:

  • aged under 19
  • aged 19 or over and in the first year of their apprenticeship

Apprentices are entitled to the minimum wage for their age if they both:

  • are aged 19 or over
  • have completed the first year of their apprenticeship

Apprentices and their managers may not always be clear about what employment rights an apprentice has, this printable gives an overview of what an apprentice is entitled to.

Any employer taking on an apprentice must:

Apprentices must work towards an approved apprenticeship. Their training must last at least 12 months.

They must be employed in a real job that gives them the opportunity to gain the knowledge and skills they need to pass their assessment.

Are you unsure what your roles and responsibilities are, this printable gives an overview of the roles and responsibilities of the apprentice, employer and training provider.

You can access the National Minimum Wage rates here.