Graphic Design Apprenticeship - Become A Graphic Designer

A graphic design apprenticeship is a paid job where you learn design skills while you train for a recognised qualification. You work with a real employer and complete training with a provider.

You build a portfolio from real tasks. You learn tools, design basics, and how to work to briefs and deadlines. Find out how to become a graphic designer with an apprenticeship.

What is a graphic design apprenticeship?

A graphic design apprenticeship is a paid job where you learn design while you work. You are employed by a company. You also complete training with a college or training provider. You work towards a recognised apprenticeship qualification. You build practical skills through real tasks, not just practice projects.

You learn how to follow a brief. A brief explains what the design is for and who it is for. You learn how to create ideas, test options, and get feedback. You learn how to deliver files in the right format. You learn how to meet deadlines.

Graphic design apprenticeships can be in many places. They can be in agencies, charities, retail, local councils, media teams, and in-house marketing teams. The work can include print and digital. It can include social media, web graphics, and branded documents.

What do graphic design apprentices do day to day?

Day-to-day work depends on the employer. Most apprentices support a design team. You complete smaller tasks at first. You build up to larger projects as your confidence grows. You spend time designing and time preparing files. You also spend time learning and being assessed.

Your day may include:

Reading a brief and checking what is needed
Finding examples and creating simple mood boards
Creating draft designs and saving versions clearly
Making small edits after feedback
Resizing artwork for different formats
Preparing files for print or for online use
Organising files so the team can find them

Some roles include admin tasks. This can include booking images, saving licences, and checking brand rules. Some roles include basic content support, such as updating templates or preparing slides.

Deadlines matter. You may have busy days with quick changes. You may also have slower days where you work on a longer project. You need to manage your time and communicate clearly about progress.

What skills you learn during a graphic design apprenticeship

You learn a mix of design skills and workplace skills. Design skills help you make clear visual work. Workplace skills help you work with other people and deliver on time.

Common design skills include:

Layout and spacing
Typography, including font choice and readability
Colour use and contrast
Basic image editing and cropping
Creating simple icons and graphics
Using templates and brand guidelines

Common workplace skills include:

Listening to feedback and making changes
Asking questions when a brief is unclear
Working to deadlines and managing workload
Keeping files organised and named clearly
Communicating progress with a manager or mentor

You may also learn software skills. This depends on the employer. Many design teams use Adobe tools. Some teams also use tools like Figma or Canva. What matters most is learning the basics of design and how to apply them in real work.

What good apprentices do in the first 3 months

In the first 3 months, your main job is to learn how the team works. You learn how briefs are shared and approved. You learn how files are stored and named. You learn what the brand rules are. You also learn what “good” looks like in your workplace.

Strong early habits include:

Saving work in clear folders with clear file names
Checking sizes, spelling, and brand colours before you send work
Keeping a list of tasks and deadlines each day
Asking for feedback early, not at the last minute
Writing down repeated feedback so you improve faster

Common failure points in a graphic design apprenticeship

Most problems come from missed basics, not a lack of talent. Late work can cause stress for the team. Poor file handling can waste time. Not checking details can lead to errors that are expensive to fix. Not asking questions can lead to work that does not match the brief.

Ways to avoid problems include:

Confirm what the work is for and who it is for
Check the size and format before you start designing
Use spellcheck and re-read text before you send it
Keep original files and export copies separately
Ask what “done” means before you finish a task

How feedback works in real design teams

Feedback is part of normal design work. You rarely get a final version on the first try. A manager may ask for changes because of the brand, the audience, or the message. You may also get feedback from people outside the design team, such as marketing or sales.

A simple way to handle feedback is to repeat it back. You can check you understood it. You can then list what you will change. This helps avoid repeated edits and confusion.

FAQs about what a graphic design apprenticeship is like

Is a graphic design apprenticeship a real job?

Yes. A graphic design apprenticeship is a paid job with an employer. You work on real tasks for the organisation. You also complete training with a provider as part of your working hours. You work towards a recognised qualification while you build experience and a portfolio.

Do graphic design apprentices work on real projects?

Yes. Most apprentices work on real projects, but the tasks start small. You may begin with resizing artwork, editing templates, or preparing simple social media graphics. As you improve, you get larger tasks. You may support a campaign or a brand update over time.

Do you need to be good at drawing to be a graphic design apprentice?

No. Many graphic design jobs do not require drawing skills. Graphic design is often about layout, type, colour, and clear communication. You may use photos, icons, and shapes more than drawings. Drawing can help in some roles, but it is not required for most apprenticeships.

Is graphic design work mostly computer work?

Yes. Most graphic design apprenticeship work is done on a computer. You use design software and you manage digital files. Some roles also include print work, such as leaflets and posters. Even print work is usually designed on a computer and then sent to a printer.

What is the difference between graphic design and digital design?

Graphic design covers both print and digital work. Digital design often focuses on websites, apps, and online content. A graphic design apprenticeship may include both, depending on the employer. Some employers use the job title “graphic designer” even when most work is digital.

Can you do a graphic design apprenticeship at an agency?

Yes. Some apprenticeships are in agencies, where you work on different clients. Agency work can move fast and you may work on many small tasks. Other apprenticeships are in-house, where you focus on one organisation. Both can be good. The best choice depends on your learning style.

What does a graphic design apprentice portfolio usually include?

It depends, but most portfolios show a range of work. This can include posters, social media graphics, simple branding, and layouts. Employers often want to see clear ideas and tidy design. They also want to see you can follow a brief. Your apprenticeship work will also build your portfolio over time.

Who can apply for a graphic design apprenticeship?

Most people can apply for a graphic design apprenticeship from age 16. You usually need to live in the UK and have the right to work. You need to be able to attend work and training. You also need to be able to travel to the workplace, unless the role is remote.

Many employers accept beginners. Some employers prefer GCSEs, especially English and maths. Some accept Functional Skills instead. Some roles test your basics in interview. What matters most is that you can learn, follow instructions, and meet deadlines.

Some employers ask for a portfolio. A portfolio is a small set of your design work. It can include school work, personal projects, or practice briefs. It does not need to be perfect. It needs to show clear effort and clear thinking.

Graphic design apprenticeship no experience

You can still get a graphic design apprenticeship with no experience. You need to show you understand the role and you can learn. A simple portfolio can do that. You can also show other useful experience, such as customer service, school projects, or volunteering.

A simple way to build a starter portfolio is:

Create 6 to 10 pieces of work, not 30 pieces
Include a poster, a social media post set, and a leaflet layout
Include one simple brand idea, such as a logo and colours
Show before and after edits, to show improvement
Add one short note per piece to explain the brief and choices

Worked example. You choose a local charity as a practice brief. You design a poster for an event. You then create two social posts that match the poster style. You include the final files and one draft version. You explain the audience and what you changed after feedback.

If you use templates, be honest. Employers can still value tidy work. They want to see that you can follow a style and keep details consistent.

Graphic design apprenticeship jobs

Graphic design apprenticeship jobs are often listed as “design apprentice”, “junior design apprentice”, or “marketing and design apprentice”. Some roles are part of a wider apprenticeship, such as a digital marketing apprenticeship, with design tasks included. Read the job description carefully to check how much design work you will do.

When you look at a job listing, check:

What software the team uses
Whether the role is print, digital, or both
Whether you will be in a design team or alone
Who gives feedback and who signs off work
What training provider is used and what level it is

If the job description is unclear, ask before you apply. Keep questions short and specific. This can save time later.

Graphic design apprenticeship near me

“Near me” should mean a travel distance you can manage every day. Design roles are often in city centres. Travel costs can add up. You should check peak time travel and start times before you accept a role.

Ways to find roles near you include:

Local employers with in-house marketing teams
Design agencies and print companies
Colleges and training providers that deliver design apprenticeships
Charities and public sector teams that need design support
Apprenticeship vacancy listings and local job boards

If you live outside a city, you may find fewer roles. You may need a wider search area. You may also need to consider remote roles, if they are available.

Graphic design apprenticeship London and other UK cities

London has the highest demand in your keyword data. Large cities often have more design teams and more agencies. They also have more in-house roles in retail, media, and technology. Competition can be higher in bigger cities. A clear portfolio and a clear application can help.

If you are applying in cities like Manchester, Birmingham, Leeds, Bristol, Sheffield, or across Scotland, the approach is similar. Focus on the type of employer you want. Focus on travel and cost. Apply early when roles go live.

Worked example. You live near Leeds. You set a 60 minute travel limit. You search roles in Leeds city centre and nearby business parks. You apply to in-house teams first and then agencies. You keep a spreadsheet of applications and follow ups.

Graphic design apprenticeship remote

Some graphic design apprenticeships are remote, but many are not. Some employers want apprentices in the office because learning is easier in person. Remote roles can still exist. They often need good communication and good organisation from day one.

If a role is remote, you should check:

How feedback is given, such as video calls and comments
What equipment is provided, such as a laptop and software
What your working hours are and how you report progress
How training time is scheduled and recorded

If you are new to design work, hybrid roles can be easier. Being in the office part of the week can speed up learning and reduce confusion.

What employers look for in applications

Employers often choose apprentices based on reliability and communication. They also look for signs that you understand what design work involves. A tidy portfolio helps. A clear CV helps. A short and polite message helps.

Strong signals include:

A portfolio that shows 6 to 10 relevant pieces
Clear file naming and clear presentation
Short notes that explain the brief and the audience
Evidence you can meet deadlines, such as school attendance or work shifts
Evidence you can take feedback and make changes

What a good application portfolio looks like

A good portfolio is easy to view. It loads quickly and it is well organised. It shows range, but it stays focused. It shows that you can follow a brief and keep details consistent.

A simple portfolio structure is:

Page 1: a short introduction and your contact details
Pages 2 to 7: 6 pieces of work with one short note each
Page 8: one case study with a brief, drafts, and final outcome
Page 9: a short list of tools you have used

Common application mistakes and how to avoid them

Some applications fail for basic reasons. Some portfolios are too long. Some include lots of unfinished work. Some do not explain what the work is for. Some CVs do not include location. Some people apply without checking travel time.

Ways to avoid mistakes include:

Keep your portfolio short and easy to view
Choose your best work, not all your work
Check spelling in every piece before you export it
State your location and travel range clearly
Reply quickly to messages after you apply

FAQs about applying and entry requirements

Can you get a graphic design apprenticeship with no experience?

Yes. Many employers accept beginners for a graphic design apprenticeship. You still need to show you can learn and follow a brief. A starter portfolio helps, even if it is made from practice projects. Keep it short and tidy. Show 6 to 10 pieces. Add one short note per piece to explain your choices.

Do you need GCSEs for a graphic design apprenticeship?

It depends. Some employers ask for GCSEs, often English and maths. Other employers accept Functional Skills or do not set grade rules. Employers usually care most about reliability and clear communication. If you do not have English and maths yet, you may be able to complete them during the apprenticeship.

Do you need a portfolio for a graphic design apprenticeship?

Yes, in many cases you do. A portfolio helps an employer see how you think and how you present work. It does not need to be perfect. It needs to be clear and easy to view. Include a small range of print and digital examples. Include one short case study with drafts and a final version.

How do you find a graphic design apprenticeship near me?

You find a graphic design apprenticeship near you by checking apprenticeship vacancies and local employers with design needs. Look for in-house marketing teams, agencies, and print companies. Also contact training providers, because they may know employers who are recruiting. Set a travel limit you can manage every day and apply early.

Are graphic design apprenticeships available in London?

Yes. London often has more graphic design apprenticeship roles because there are more agencies and more large employers. Competition can be higher. A clear portfolio helps. A clear application helps. It also helps to apply quickly when roles are posted and to reply quickly to interview invitations.

Can you do a graphic design apprenticeship remotely?

Yes, sometimes. Some employers offer remote or hybrid graphic design apprenticeships. Remote roles often need strong communication and good organisation. You should check how feedback is given and what equipment is provided. If you are new to design work, a hybrid role can be easier to learn from.

What should you write on a CV for a graphic design apprenticeship?

You should write a short CV that shows reliability and interest in design. Include your location and travel range. Include your education and any work experience. Include a link to your portfolio. Add a short skills section, such as basic design tools and file organisation. Keep it clear and keep it to one page if possible.

Graphic design apprenticeship wage and pay

Pay on a graphic design apprenticeship depends on your age and what year you are in. The law sets a minimum hourly rate. Some employers pay more than the minimum. Pay can also vary by region and employer size.

There is a legal apprentice minimum wage rate. This rate applies if you are under 19. It can also apply if you are 19 or over and in the first year of your apprenticeship. After the first year, you must be paid at least the minimum wage for your age. These rules are explained by Acas at acas.org.uk.

The government lists the current National Minimum Wage and National Living Wage rates on GOV.UK.

Worked example. You are in your first year and you are paid the apprentice rate of £7.55 per hour. You work 35 hours a week. That is £264.25 a week before tax. Over 4 weeks that is about £1,057.00 before tax.

Worked example. You are 19 and in your second year. You must be paid at least the minimum wage for your age. Acas lists the 19 to 20 minimum as £10 per hour from April 2025 to March 2026. If you work 35 hours a week, that is £350.00 a week before tax.

Some employers pay a salary instead of an hourly rate. Your contract should still show how pay is worked out. It should also say your working hours and your training time.

Most apprentices are paid for training time that is part of the apprenticeship. This can include college days. If you are not sure, check your contract and ask your training provider to explain what is paid time.

Your take-home pay can be lower than your hourly rate suggests. Common reasons include:

Income Tax and National Insurance once your pay is over the thresholds
Travel costs, such as bus, train, or fuel
Buying small items, such as a notebook or basic equipment, if needed

What to check in a pay offer for a graphic design apprenticeship

Pay is only one part of the offer. Some offers look good but cost more once you include travel and equipment. It helps to check the full picture before you accept.

Checks that help include:

How many hours you are paid for each week
Whether training time is paid
Whether the role is office, hybrid, or remote
Travel costs and travel time if you are office based
Whether a laptop and software are provided

How pay can change during an apprenticeship

Pay can change when you move into later years. It can also change when minimum wage rates change. Minimum wage rates usually update in April. If you are paid at the legal minimum, your hourly rate may change then.

Some employers also increase pay when you take on more responsibility. This can happen when you start managing small tasks without close supervision. It can also happen when you support larger projects.

How to check your payslip

A payslip shows your hours, your pay rate, and your deductions. You can use it to check you were paid for all hours worked.

Key parts to check include:

Your hourly rate or salary
Your hours worked and any overtime
Your gross pay before deductions
Your deductions, such as tax and National Insurance if they apply
Your net pay that goes into your bank

FAQs about pay on a graphic design apprenticeship

Do graphic design apprentices get paid?

Yes. A graphic design apprenticeship is a paid job. You must be paid at least the legal minimum wage for your situation. This depends on your age and what year you are in. Many employers pay more than the minimum, but they do not have to unless your contract says so.

Is there a minimum wage for apprentices in the UK?

Yes. There is a legal apprentice minimum wage rate. It applies to apprentices under 19. It can also apply to apprentices aged 19 or over in their first year. After the first year, apprentices aged 19 or over must be paid at least the minimum wage rate for their age.

Do you get paid for college days on a graphic design apprenticeship?

Yes, in many apprenticeships you are paid for your normal working hours, including training time that is part of the programme. This can include college days or provider training. Your contract should explain your paid hours. If you are unsure, ask your employer and your training provider to confirm.

Does apprentice pay go up in the second year?

Yes, it can go up. If you are 19 or over, the legal minimum can increase after your first year because the age rate applies. Some employers also increase pay as skills improve and responsibilities grow. Check your contract to see if there are set pay steps by year.

Can you be paid less than the apprentice minimum wage?

No. If minimum wage rules apply to you, you must be paid at least the legal minimum rate. Underpayment can happen by mistake, such as missing training hours or missing overtime. Check your payslips and your recorded hours. If you think pay is wrong, raise it with your employer.

Is graphic design apprenticeship pay different in London?

It can be. Some London employers pay more because of higher living costs and competition for staff. This is not guaranteed. Pay depends on the employer, the role, and the contract. You should still check travel costs and working patterns, because these can affect your real take-home money.

What costs should you plan for during a graphic design apprenticeship?

It depends on the role. Office roles can include travel costs and food costs. Some roles need basic equipment, but many employers provide a laptop and software. You should also plan for quieter months if overtime is not available. A simple budget can help you manage the first few pay cycles.

Graphic design apprenticeship level 3

A Level 3 graphic design apprenticeship is a common entry level for new starters. It focuses on core design skills and safe working habits in a real workplace. You learn how to work to briefs, follow brand rules, and deliver work on time. You also learn how to prepare files for print and digital use.

Level 3 apprenticeships often suit people who are starting from school or changing direction. They can also suit older starters who are new to design work. The exact title can vary by employer and training provider.

At Level 3, you may build skills in:

Layout and typography basics
Using brand guidelines and templates
Creating social media graphics and simple print layouts
Basic image editing and file export
Working with feedback and version control

Graphic design apprenticeship level 6

A Level 6 graphic design apprenticeship is a higher level route. It is closer to degree level study. It usually involves deeper learning and higher responsibility. It can suit people who want a more advanced route into design and leadership work.

Level 6 programmes can include complex projects. They can include strategy and planning work. They can also include working across teams, such as marketing, product, or web development. Entry requirements are often higher for Level 6 roles. Employers may expect stronger qualifications or a stronger portfolio.

At Level 6, you may work on:

Design systems and brand development
User needs and digital design planning
Campaign design across channels
Research and testing of design choices
Managing small projects and timelines

Graphic design degree apprenticeship

A graphic design degree apprenticeship is a route where you work and study towards a degree level qualification while employed. The exact format depends on the programme and the provider. Some are called degree apprenticeships and some are higher apprenticeships that lead into degree level study.

These roles often suit people who want structured learning and long term progression. They can be competitive. Employers may expect a strong portfolio and good grades. They also expect strong organisation, because you balance work tasks with study tasks.

Worked example. You join a design team and support campaign work. You also complete planned study tasks each week. You use your workplace projects as part of assessment evidence. Over time, you move from supporting tasks to leading parts of a project.

How long is a graphic design apprenticeship?

Length depends on the level and the programme. Apprenticeships can take from months to several years. Many Level 3 programmes are often around 18 months to 2 years. Higher and degree level programmes can take longer. Your exact end date is set out in your training plan.

Apprenticeships include off-the-job training time. This is protected training time during working hours. It is usually at least 20% of your normal working hours. This time can include taught sessions, guided study, and project work linked to your role.

Worked example. You work 35 hours a week. 20% is 7 hours. That is 7 hours each week for training time. This may be one day each week or spread across the week. Your employer and provider will confirm the pattern.

What happens after a graphic design apprenticeship?

After you complete your apprenticeship, you can move into a job as a junior designer, graphic designer, or content designer, depending on your work and employer. Many employers keep apprentices on if there is a role available. Your pay often increases as you take on more responsibility.

Common next steps include:

Stay with the same employer as a junior designer
Move to a different employer for wider experience
Specialise in areas like branding, digital design, or motion graphics
Move into design operations or project coordination
Progress into senior design roles over time

Progression usually depends on your portfolio, your reliability, and your ability to take feedback. It also depends on the type of employer. Agencies can offer fast variety. In-house teams can offer deeper knowledge of one brand and one audience.

How assessment works during a design apprenticeship

Most apprenticeship programmes assess you through evidence of your work. You collect examples of tasks you have completed. You may write short notes about what you did and why. You may also have observations where someone watches you work. You may also have a final assessment at the end.

It helps to keep evidence organised from the start. Save drafts and final versions. Save feedback notes. Save emails or messages that show approval. Keep a simple log of what you worked on each week.

How to build a strong portfolio while you are an apprentice

Your workplace work can become your best portfolio work. You need to keep it tidy and easy to explain. You also need to follow rules about confidential work. Some employers allow you to show work once it is public. Some employers need written permission.

A simple approach is:

Choose 6 to 10 strong pieces from real work
Write one short note per piece on the brief and audience
Show one draft and the final outcome for 2 projects
Explain one problem you solved, such as improving readability

Progression model from apprentice to mid level designer

Progression often follows a pattern. First you support tasks and learn tools. Then you deliver small pieces with less help. Then you handle full briefs with feedback cycles. After that, you can take on bigger projects and support newer starters. Over time, you can move into senior design work or specialist areas.

FAQs about levels, duration, and progression

Is Level 3 the main graphic design apprenticeship level?

Yes. Level 3 is a common level for graphic design apprenticeships because it suits new starters. It focuses on core workplace skills and core design skills. It also helps you build a portfolio through real work. Some employers also offer higher levels, but Level 3 is often the main starting point.

What is Level 6 in a graphic design apprenticeship?

Level 6 is a higher level apprenticeship that is closer to degree level study. It usually involves deeper learning and more complex projects. It can suit people who want a more advanced route into design and leadership work. Employers often expect stronger qualifications or a stronger portfolio for Level 6 roles.

How long is a graphic design apprenticeship?

It depends on the programme and level. Many Level 3 programmes are often around 18 months to 2 years. Higher and degree level programmes can take longer. Your training plan sets the exact length. You also need time for off-the-job training, which is part of your paid working hours.

Do you get a qualification at the end of a graphic design apprenticeship?

Yes. You complete a recognised apprenticeship programme linked to your job role. You also complete assessments to show you meet the standard. The exact qualification title can vary by programme. Your training provider will tell you what you will achieve and what evidence you must provide.

Can you do a degree apprenticeship in graphic design?

Yes, sometimes. Degree apprenticeships exist in some areas and with some providers. They can be competitive. Employers often expect strong grades and a strong portfolio. They also expect strong organisation because you balance work tasks and study tasks at the same time.

What job can you get after a graphic design apprenticeship?

After a graphic design apprenticeship, you may move into a junior designer or graphic designer role. Your job title depends on the employer and the work you do. Some people move into digital design or content roles. Progression depends on your portfolio, your reliability, and your ability to work to briefs.

Can you move into UX or digital design after a graphic design apprenticeship?

Yes. Many graphic design skills transfer to digital design. You may need extra learning in areas like user needs and layout for screens. Some apprenticeships include digital work already. You can also build this skill through projects and training. A portfolio with digital examples can help support the move.