Career · 6 min read
Side projects for UK apprentices: what to build and why
The best types of side projects for UK apprentices in 2026 - building portfolio, income and skills without burning out.
By Jack Frampton, Marketer at Queen's College, Taunton · Published 15 July 2026
Side projects are the single biggest career accelerator available to an apprentice. Here's how to pick, size and finish them.
The three good types
Portfolio builders, income earners, and skill stretchers.
How to size
Under 4 hours per week. Finish beats fancy every time.
Ideas
Freelance a small brand, run a niche newsletter, build a local directory site.
Related
Frequently asked questions
- Am I allowed side projects while on an apprenticeship?
- Usually yes - check your contract for conflict of interest clauses.
- Do I need to tell my employer?
- Yes - full transparency prevents problems later.
- Can side projects pay well?
- Yes - £200–£1,000/month is realistic for a marketing-focused apprentice by year two.
- Which side projects lead to full-time offers?
- Freelance work almost always leads to at least one job offer within 18 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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