In general, what you pay your apprentice is a matter between you and them. However, it is important to remember that National Minimum Wage regulations apply to all your employees. Below are minimum salary guidelines for apprentices. An apprentice should work a minimum of 21 hours per week.
An apprentice is entitled to the apprentice rate of £5.28/hr if they are:
- Aged 16 to 18 years old
- Aged 19 or over and in the first year of their apprenticeship
If your apprentice is aged 19 and over and they have completed the first year of their apprenticeship, they will be entitled to the National Minimum Wage.
National Minimum Wage - hourly rates from 1 April 2023
- £10.42 Aged 23 years old and over
- £10.18 Aged 21 to 22 years old
- £7.49 Aged 18 to 20 rate
- £5.28 Aged 16 – 17 years old
