Guides
Ways into a hands-on career
Plain-English guides to the routes in – what they involve, who they suit, what they cost and where to apply. Written for England and checked against official sources.
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Apprenticeships explained
How apprenticeships work in England: levels, pay, training time, who can apply and how to find one in a skilled trade.
Updated September 2026
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T Levels explained
What T Levels are, how the industry placement works, which T Levels lead into the trades and how they compare with apprenticeships.
Updated September 2026
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Skills Bootcamps
Free, flexible courses of up to 16 weeks for adults in England, with a guaranteed job interview at the end – including construction and green skills.
Updated September 2026
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College courses and adult learning
College routes into the trades at 16 and as an adult: diplomas, free courses, loans and help with costs in England.
Updated September 2026
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Changing career into a trade
Practical routes into a skilled trade as an adult: apprenticeships at any age, trainee roles, courses, recognition of experience and where to get advice.
Updated September 2026
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Going self-employed in a trade
The practical and legal basics of working for yourself as a tradesperson in the UK: registering, tax, CIS, VAT, insurance and certification.
Updated September 2026
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Women in trades
Encouraging, practical information for women and girls considering a skilled trade: your rights, kit that fits, networks and routes in.
Updated September 2026
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