4 June 2026
Apprenticeships vs University in 2026: Which Is the Best Choice for School Leavers?
Unsure whether to choose university or an apprenticeship in 2026? Discover the pros, cons, salary potential and career opportunities for school leavers.
Award-winning UK apprenticeship provider
Funded apprenticeships inAI, data, IT and accountancy
Solveway helps employers recruit, train and upskill people through practical, government-funded apprenticeship programmes across the UK.
- AAT Awards 2026Winner
- OfstedExpected Standard
- UKPRN10025133
- Trusted by UK employers
Free Employer Tool
Turn a business bottleneck into a funded training plan
Tell us what is slowing your team down. We'll suggest the apprenticeship route most likely to help, along with a practical workplace project your apprentice could work on.
- Describe the issue
- Get your recommended route
- Request a personalised plan
Award-winning providerAI, Data, IT & AccountancyLevy & funding guidanceSelected to deliver AI training
AAT Training Provider Awards 2026 Winner
START HERE
What would you like to improve?
Choose a common challenge or describe your own. We'll match it to the most relevant apprenticeship route and show how it could support your business.
Trusted by leading employers
Browse Our Apprenticeship Programmes
Explore Solveway’s full range of apprenticeship programmes across IT, Digital Support, Data, Artificial Intelligence and Accountancy. Each programme is designed with employers to deliver the skills organisations need now and in the future. Filter by sector to compare options, understand career outcomes and find the right apprenticeship for your goals, experience level or workforce requirements.
Unlock workforce potential. Build future-ready tech skills.
Government-funded, employer-led apprenticeships in Artificial Intelligence, IT Infrastructure, Data Analysis, and Accountancy.
Designed with employers. Built for real roles.
Our apprenticeship programmes are co-designed with employers to meet real workforce needs, from AI and data to IT and accountancy, ensuring skills are relevant, applied and future-focused.
Eli supports apprentices, employers and staff with guidance, resources and timely answers, working alongside our tutors and assessors, not instead of them.
Independently validated. Expertly delivered.
Our programmes are delivered by experienced professionals and independently validated by Ofsted as meeting the expected standard across every area of provision under the new inspection framework.
EXPERT PERSPECTIVES
Latest Insights & News
19 April 2026
Can You Do an Apprenticeship at 30, 40 or 50?
Yes, there is no upper age limit for apprenticeships in England. If you are 16 or over, live in England and are not in full-time education, you can usually apply. Whether you are 30, 40 or 50+, an apprenticeship can be a practical route to retrain, gain recognised skills or progress in your current career.
15 April 2026
Three AI Apprenticeship Levels. One Provider. Why That Matters for UK Employers in 2026
Discover how Level 3, Level 4, and Level 5 AI apprenticeship programmes create a complete workforce strategy. Learn how Solveway Apprenticeships delivers scalable AI skills from entry-level to leadership.
COMMON QUESTIONS
Everything you need to know.
Starting an apprenticeship is a big decision. Here are answers to the most common questions we get from applicants.
Still have questions?We're here to help.
Our team is ready to help you navigate funding, recruitment, and upskilling options.
If your annual payroll bill is over £3 million, you pay 0.5% into the Levy. These funds can be used to pay for apprenticeship training for new or existing staff. We help you manage your DAS account and utilise these funds effectively before they expire.
If you don't pay the Levy, the government still funds 95% of the training costs. You only pay the remaining 5% (co-investment). We handle the funding paperwork and guide you through the reservation process.
We offer a free recruitment service. Our team sources candidates via major job boards, screens them for aptitude and commitment, and presents you with a shortlist of the best talent—saving you time and recruitment fees.
We don't just support the learner; we support you. You'll have a dedicated account manager and regular progress reviews. We also provide clear guidance on how to support your apprentice's 6 hours of off-the-job training per week.
If you are a Levy-paying employer (payroll over £3m), the cost of training is covered by your Levy pot. If you are a non-Levy employer, the government funds 95% of the training costs, meaning you only pay a 5% co-investment fee. You are responsible for paying the apprentice's salary.
Large employers who do not spend their full Apprenticeship Levy can transfer up to 50% of their unused funds to another business. We can help match SMEs with Levy-transferring organisations, potentially covering 100% of your training costs.