About this apprenticeship
What it involves
Network engineers design, build, configure, and maintain the computer networks that organisations rely on for their day-to-day operations. Apprentices at Level 4 learn routing, switching, wireless, and network security, working towards professional certifications such as CCNA alongside their qualification. The role leads to senior network engineer, network architect, or security specialisms.
On the job
What you’ll learn
Networking fundamentals including TCP/IP, routing, and switching
Configuring routers, switches, and wireless access points
Network security principles, firewalls, and VPNs
Network monitoring, troubleshooting, and performance analysis
Cloud networking and virtualisation concepts
Vendor technologies such as Cisco, Juniper, or Palo Alto
On the job
What you’ll do day to day
Configure and maintain routers, switches, and network devices
Monitor network performance and investigate connectivity issues
Implement firewall rules and VPN configurations
Respond to network incidents and restore service quickly
Document network topology, changes, and configurations
Support IT teams and users with network-related problems
The deal
How this apprenticeship works
You earn a wage from day one. You are a paid employee, not a student. There are no tuition fees - the training is funded by your employer and the government.
About 20% is “off-the-job” training. Roughly a day a week is spent learning away from your normal duties - at a college, training provider, or online - working towards a recognised qualification.
It ends with an end-point assessment (EPA). Near the end, an independent assessor checks you can do the job to the national standard - through tests, a project, a portfolio or an interview. Pass it and you are fully qualified.
How to get there
What you need to start
Level 4 (Higher) - roughly Foundation-degree level. Usually needs Level 3 (A-levels, a T-Level, or an Advanced apprenticeship) or relevant experience.
What’s next: Can lead to a Level 5/6 apprenticeship or a more senior role.
Entry requirements are set by each employer and can vary - always check the specific vacancy.
Hear from employers
What it’s really like
No employer videos yet for this apprenticeship. Employers offering it can add one to show young people what the role is really like.