Ollie Sidwell, Co-founder at Higherin reveals what 10,000 student reviews reveal about apprentices in 2026.
Apprenticeships are booming. In 2025, we saw a 25% surge in roles available on our careers platform - evidence that employers are embracing this talent pipeline whilst more young people are choosing practical, paid experience over traditional university routes.
At Higherin, authentic student voices are firmly at the heart. After completing their programmes, apprentices are encouraged to share candid reviews of their experience, covering responsibilities, culture, work-life balance, progression, and inclusion. These insights help the next generation make more informed career decisions.
Every year, tens of thousands of these honest reviews feed into the annual Top Apprenticeship Employers Tables, created in partnership with the Government's Department for Work and Pensions. The tables champion employers who are leading the way in running successful, fulfilling schemes for young people. You can register to take part in 2026.
Here’s what emerged from 10,000 apprentice reviews this year and what employers need to know.
1. Apprentice satisfaction has reached an all-time high
Over the past 11 years, average review ratings have climbed from 7.99 to 8.86 - the highest it's ever been in a calendar year since we launched Higherin over a decade ago.
Across over 10,000 reviews submitted, a whopping 98% of apprentices would recommend their employer to a friend. We know the power of peer-to-peer feedback with a Gen Z audience, and the message is clear that apprentices are thriving.
2. Apprentices are becoming vocal advocates
Annual reviews have skyrocketed from 1,238 to 10,800 over the past decade. This enthusiasm to share positive experiences signals a cultural shift that apprentices are proud of their path and eager to guide others.
3. Salaries are climbing steadily, but gender pay gaps persist
Year-on-year data shows apprenticeship compensation rising, with a 10% average increase from 2024. Higher Level Apprenticeships saw particularly strong growth, with average salaries reaching £24,519 - up from £22,723.
However, our analysis of average salaries by gender identity reveals persistent disparities. Males continue to earn more than females across all but one of the four levels, with Level 2 apprenticeships showing the greatest gap: males earn 15% more than females.
The disparity becomes even starker when we look at those who identify as non-binary, transgender, or prefer not to say. Non-binary and transgender apprentices earn significantly less than both male and female apprentices at Level 2.
4. Apprentices ranked confidence as the most transformative skill
For most young people, apprenticeships mark their first professional experience in the working world. When reviewing their time, building confidence consistently ranked as the most valued outcome, with apprentices praising employers who challenge them supportively.
This emphasis on confidence came through loud and clear in the data. Communication appeared in over 2,000 student reviews - by far the most frequently mentioned skill - followed closely by confidence, customer service, knowledge, and people skills, each with over 1,000 mentions.
Presenting, leadership, professionalism, and stakeholder management formed the next tier with over 750 mentions, while teamwork, public speaking, and organisation appeared over 500 times alongside technical competencies like data analysis, Excel, and software skills.
An advanced apprentice at Specsavers said, "I have increased my confidence when speaking to other people and how to overcome issues when things go wrong. Before I may have avoided anything difficult, but now I know I can definitely try first and help is there if I need it."
The sentiment was reiterated by a higher apprentice at Ibstock, "I have grown my communication and management of people, especially difficult stakeholders... embracing and acknowledging different viewpoints and the depth they can bring to a matter."
5. Inclusive cultures drive the highest satisfaction
Gen Z craves belonging. Apprentices consistently rate their experiences higher when they feel welcomed, valued, and connected to their peers.
As one degree apprentice at Storal Learning suggested, "What I value most is a supportive and enriching environment where I can grow professionally. The team is welcoming and collaborative, fostering a positive workplace culture where everyone's contributions are recognised."
But when that support falters, the impact is stark. A degree apprentice at a construction firm shared, "The day-to-day job has felt rather isolating from the get-go. Line managers and teams chopped and changed consistently, preventing me from feeling part of a team or at all assisted by any manager."
The pattern is clear, apprentices entering their first professional role need consistent support. Many reported feeling adrift during team transitions or periods without assigned mentors, with a lack of regular feedback leaving them uncertain about their progress and place in the organisation.
As apprenticeships continue to gain momentum, the employers who truly listen to their apprentices' will be the ones who build the strongest talent pipelines. Student reviews continue to provide integral feedback to creating strong, fulfilling schemes.