IT and Digital Apprenticeships
These government funded IT apprenticeship programmes cover IT support, networks and infrastructure, and are designed to build practical workplace skills. Suitable for both employers looking to upskill teams and learners starting a new career path, the training is paid for from your levy account if you pay the levy, or through government co-investment if you do not: apprentices aged 16 to 24 are fully funded, and for those aged 25 or over the government pays 95% of the cost and you pay 5%.
Compare IT and Digital programmes
Every programme below is paid for through the levy or government co-investment. Pick by level and format, then read the full page.
| Programme | Level | Format | Duration | Next step |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hardware, network and infrastructure foundation apprenticeship | Level 2 | Full apprenticeship | 8 Months | View the Level 2 Hardware, network and infrastructure foundation apprenticeship |
| Information Communication Technician | Level 3 | Full apprenticeship | 12 - 15 Months | View the Level 3 Information Communication Technician apprenticeship |
| Information Communication Technician Pro | Level 3 | Full apprenticeship | 20 + EPA Months | View the Level 3 Information Communication Technician Pro apprenticeship |
| Network Support Engineer | Level 4 | Full apprenticeship | 15 - 18 Months | View the Level 4 Network Support Engineer apprenticeship |
What is an IT and Digital Apprenticeship?
A Digital / IT apprenticeship is a structured training programme combining work-based learning with technical instruction. These programmes typically last between 12 and 15 months, leading to recognised technology qualifications.
They are designed for individuals looking to develop practical skills in maintaining networks, supporting infrastructure, and diagnosing technical faults across modern business environments.
Why IT and Digital Skills Matter for Businesses
Robust digital skills are essential for maintaining secure business operations and reliable IT support. Effective IT infrastructure ensures that communication tools, cloud resources, and internal networks remain functional and secure.
By building internal IT capability, companies mitigate cybersecurity risks, reduce system downtime, and ensure teams have the technical support required to operate efficiently.
Available IT and Digital Programmes
Choose from four full apprenticeship programmes at Levels 2 to 4, all paid for through the apprenticeship levy or government co-investment.
Full Apprenticeship Programmes
12–15 months
Hardware, network and infrastructure foundation apprenticeship
Build the backbone of the digital economy with the Hardware, Network and Infrastructure Foundation (FA0004). Master the practical skills of installing, maintaining, and troubleshooting physical and virtual systems, from cabling to cloud connectivity. This programme serves as the perfect entry point for roles like Infrastructure Technician and Junior IT Support.
Information Communication Technician
Launch your IT career with the government-funded Information Communication Technician Level 3 (ST0973). Specialise in Support, Network, or Digital Communications to master cloud services and cyber security. This programme directly qualifies you for roles like IT Support Technician and Network Engineer.
Information Communication Technician Pro
An enhanced delivery of the Information Communication Technician Level 3 (ST0973), combining core infrastructure skills with advanced cloud modules. Develops workplace-ready professionals for IT Support and Cloud Technician roles.
Network Support Engineer
Advance your technical career with the Network Support Engineer Level 4 (ST0127). Master system administration, network security, and cloud configuration. Directly qualifies you for Network Engineer and Senior Support Technician roles.
Trusted by leading employers
What Skills Apprentices Learn
- Networking principles and hardware infrastructure
- Cybersecurity fundamentals and threat mitigation
- Cloud computing platforms (AWS, Azure, Microsoft 365)
- User support, helpdesk ticketing, and system administration
- Diagnostic techniques and technical problem solving
- IT project management and agile methodologies
Who These Apprenticeships Are For
For Employers
These apprenticeships are ideal for employers looking to upskill existing IT staff, build a dedicated first-line support desk, or improve their overall cybersecurity posture.
They provide a cost-effective, structured route to expanding technical capability and maintaining essential digital infrastructure.
For Learners
Digital and IT apprenticeships are suitable for school leavers, career changers, and employees moving into technical support or network operations.
Typical career outcomes include becoming an IT Support Technician, Network Engineer, Cloud Support Analyst, or IT Helpdesk Operator.
Funding and Duration
Employers: read our apprenticeship funding and levy guidance for employers for the rules by employer type and apprentice age.
- Training costs are funded through the apprenticeship levy for larger employers.
- Non-levy paying businesses can access 95% to 100% government funding via co-investment schemes.
- There is no training cost for the learner.
- Typical programme duration ranges from 12 to 15 months, concluding with an End-Point Assessment (EPA).
Frequently Asked Questions
Our Digital and IT apprenticeships are generally delivered at Level 3, providing a strong foundation for technical careers.
No direct professional IT experience is required, though a demonstrated interest in technology, hardware, or computing systems is highly beneficial.
If you pay the apprenticeship levy, training is paid from your levy account. If you do not, apprentices aged 16 to 24 are fully funded, and for those aged 25 or over the government pays 95% of the cost and you pay 5%.
Digital and IT programmes typically take between 12 and 15 months to complete, depending on the specific pathway.
Programmes can start at various times throughout the year relative to employer needs and available training cohorts.
Speak to our team about IT and Digital apprenticeships
Whether you are looking to upskill your workforce or start a new career in IT and Digital, our specialist team is ready to help.