Find your place in tech
Become an apprentice in Scotland
Discover your potential in Scotland's digital industry with a QA apprenticeship. You can start your career now and earn while you learn all the skills you need for today's job market.
What is an apprenticeship?
An apprenticeship is a modern, hands-on way to train for a career, offering a thrilling alternative to the traditional university route. Transform your passion into your profession, change your career path, or specialise in a different sector.
You are part of a team, take home a monthly wage, and study for a nationally recognised qualification. What better way to launch your career journey!
Our apprentices work here
Apprenticeships by the numbers
12k+
careers launched or transformed
70%
feel more confident and better prepared for work-life
90%+
of QA apprentices end up in a permanent role
Why start an apprenticeship with us?
Our apprenticeships equip you with the skills you need to excel in an evolving digital world. It's more than just a learning experience; it's a path to a rewarding future.
We support you every step of the way in your chosen career path, whether that is with a nationally recognised company, a local enterprise, or an exciting tech start-up.
The benefits of apprenticeships
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Totally debt free
You'll be earning a salary with your employer and the training is totally free.
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Flexible digital learning
Work at your own pace through a mix of virtual classrooms, online learning and workplace application with our award-winning learning system.
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Hands-on practice
Try out your newfound skills in a safe environment before applying them in the workplace.
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Real-time instant support
You’ll receive regular one-on-one sessions from your skills coach.
How to find an apprenticeship?
Apply for one of our apprenticeship vacancies
Lots of new opportunities across Scotland are added every month. You can narrow your search via location or by keywords.
Submit your application
A career adviser will review your application and give you a call if you are a good match.
Create your personal profile
After completing a document and ID check, your dedicated career advisor will help you create a personal profile which is an opportunity to tell employers about yourself.
We'll support you all the way
We’ll set up any interviews and help you prepare for them. We’ll keep in touch about the apprenticeship job you applied for and, if any others come up we think you’d like, we’ll let you know.
Start your apprenticeship
If all goes well…you’ll get the job and start your apprenticeship.
Is an apprenticeship right for you?
Our apprenticeships are open to anyone aged 16 or over who is not in full-time education and eligible to live and work in Scotland.
Applicants should not already hold a similar or higher qualification to the apprenticeship they are applying for. Each vacancy has unique entry requirements, so it's important to check if you meet them.
If you're interested in an apprenticeship through your employer, make sure to review their specific requirements.
You can find further information about apprenticeship requirements in the FAQs section.
Ready to apply?
Take the first steps to kickstart your career in digital and start your application for a QA apprenticeship.
The impact of apprenticeships
Mohammad Nassor
Data Analytics Apprentice, NHS
Kerr Findlay
Software Development Apprentice, NatWest
Amy Canfield
Digital Marketing Apprentice, The Social Hood
What our apprentices think
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The programme that I'm currently doing has changed my life drastically for the better, as in the last year I have developed into the best version of myself; I have grown so much as a person, improving my maturity, independence, and confidence. I look forward to progressing through the world of IT as this apprenticeship has shown that I'm capable to take on whatever opportunities at thrown at me
Fiona MacDonald
Information Technology and Telecommunications Professionals Apprentice, MDDUS
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I've been a part of numerous projects which have all given me the feeling of responsibility for the team, confidence in myself and others and even passion for my job which I'm loving. I'm grateful for the opportunity I have been given and can't wait to progress with QA and Computershare, as this is truly ignited my career in IT and can only go up from here!
Finlay Pake
Information Technology & Telecommunications Professionals Apprentice, Computershare Investor Services PLC
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I now have a job that I'm really enjoying and a career path that wasn't available to me before starting the programme. My apprenticeship gave me the opportunity to continue learning and growing whilst also working. I've met new people, made lots of friends and connections, been exposed to many different work cultures and this has allowed me to pave a career in a field I didn't know anything about beforehand.
Mohammad Nassor
Data Analytics Apprentice, NHS
Frequently asked questions
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What are the entry requirements for an apprenticeship?
- Apprenticeships are open to anyone aged 16 or over.
- You must be eligible to live and work in Scotland.
- You should not already have a qualification in a similar subject at the same level, or a higher level than the apprenticeship you are applying for.
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How long do apprenticeships last?
Apprenticeships in Scotland must last at least one year, but can last up to five, depending on the level of apprenticeship you choose. Most Scotland apprenticeships offered by QA last between one and two years.
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Do I need to be good at technical subjects like maths, science, and computer studies to consider a career in technology?
No, most employers prioritise a passion for technology and an eagerness to learn. The great news is that the tech industry doesn't favor a single type. It's a sector that celebrates diversity, vibrancy, and skills are always in-demand.
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How many hours a week will I work as an apprentice?
As an apprentice, you are expected to work a minimum of 30 hours per week with your employer while also engaging in part-time studies.
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How much time do I get to study?
For apprentices in Scotland, we suggest to employers that all learners are given a minimum of two hours per week to work on their apprenticeship portfolio. As well as this, you will likely attend training courses throughout your apprenticeship programme to complement your job role and support your learning.
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Do I get sick pay and holiday pay?
Yes, an apprenticeship is simply another route into work, and apprentices are entitled to the same benefits as full-time employees, including a salary, annual leave, and sick pay.
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Is there a guaranteed job at the end of an apprenticeship?
While an employer doesn't have to provide permanent employment after an apprenticeship, 90% of apprentices at QA end up with a permanent role, and of course a nationally recognised qualification.
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Who chooses which training provider I study with?
Your employer will be partnered with a specific training provider to deliver the apprenticeship. QA is the number one training provider for tech and digital apprenticeships in Scotland.
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Can I move from one employer to another and continue with my apprenticeship?
Yes, you can switch jobs and carry on with the same apprenticeship without having to start your studies again. However, it is essential that your new employer is already offering apprenticeships, and your training provider must agree that the new employer is suitable.
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When do apprenticeships start?
QA apprenticeships start throughout the year. Check out our live vacancies any time.