Careers · 6 min read
Apprentice salary negotiation: how to ask for a raise in 2026
The when, how and script for negotiating an apprentice salary in the UK in 2026 - with real Somerset examples and expected uplifts.
By Jack Frampton, Marketer at Queen's College, Taunton · Published 15 July 2026
Most apprentices leave money on the table by not negotiating. Here's how to ask for a raise in 2026 without damaging the relationship.
When to ask
End of year one after a visible win, or on completion of EPA.
How much
10–25% is realistic when moving from apprentice pay to trained pay.
The script
"Here's what I've delivered, here's the market rate, here's what I'd like." Simple.
Related
Frequently asked questions
- Can apprentices negotiate salary?
- Yes - especially at completion. Many employers expect it.
- What's an apprentice raise worth?
- Typically 10–25% on completion of Level 3.
- Should I have another offer in hand?
- Not required, but it strengthens the conversation.
- What if my employer says no?
- Ask what the path to it looks like. If there isn't one, start looking.
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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