Parents · 6 min read
A parent's guide to apprenticeships in Somerset (2026)
The clear-headed parent's guide to apprenticeships in Taunton and Somerset in 2026 - how they work, salaries, providers and what a good decision looks like.
By Jack Frampton, Marketer at Queen's College, Taunton · Published 15 July 2026
If your child is considering an apprenticeship in Somerset, here's what you actually need to know - no jargon, no marketing spin.
How they work
Paid job + off-the-job training. 12–48 months. No debt. Real qualification.
Salary
£14k–£18k Level 3 starting, £22k–£28k on completion.
Providers in Somerset
Bridgwater & Taunton College and University Centre Somerset (UCS) are the two anchors.
Best next step
Bring them to the Taunton Apprenticeship Evening 2027. Free tickets.
Frequently asked questions
- Are apprenticeships as respected as degrees?
- Yes - especially in the trades, engineering, tech and marketing. Employers actively prefer them in many sectors.
- Do apprentices pay for training?
- No - 100% funded by the employer via the apprenticeship levy.
- Can they go to university later?
- Yes - apprentices routinely progress to degree apprenticeships or standalone degrees.
- What if they choose the wrong one?
- They can switch - many do in the first three months.
Explore more on this site
- Apprenticeship Hub →Free mentoring, vacancy help and guides for school leavers, parents and employers.
- Marketing Portfolio →Campaign design, sports graphics, editorial work and photography from Queen's College, Taunton.
- Video →Behind the scenes video and short-form apprenticeship content.
- About Jack Frampton →Marketer, apprenticeship advocate and Taunton keynote speaker.
About the author
Marketer at Queen's College, Taunton · Apprenticeship advocate
Jack Frampton is a marketer at Queen's College, Taunton, working across digital marketing, SEO, design, content and photography. He came through the apprenticeship route himself, founded the Taunton Apprenticeship Evening and speaks in schools across Somerset and the South West about apprenticeships as a route into marketing. He offers free mentoring for school leavers, parents and employers.
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