How to become an apprentice welder: Billy's story

Age

17

In my job

As a welder I join metal together using heat and machinery in a workshop. Day to day I can make anything from tiny metal components to a four metre gate. I use a lot of manual handling skills, and need very good hand-eye coordination skills as well as wearing protective clothes to be safe. My job also includes a lot of mathematical tasks, like working out distances.

At school

I took GCSE Engineering and gained a basic level of understanding of how to use hand tools. It gave me basic knowledge of engineering. I left in year 11 after my GCSEs and worked all summer.

At college

I went to do Engineering full time at college but after two months I decided an apprenticeship, would be a much better path for me to take, and I found one with a company called Artisan Engineering Services. So I switched courses at the same college, and now get paid as well as learning the key skills I need to do my job.

Working for a small friendly company has given me a great work ethic, and I take pride in my work.

Top tips

You don’t necessarily have to go to university and do a job where you have to wear a suit. You can make money in other ways, and sometimes you can make even more money than those who have gone to university!

What to expect if you want to be a welder

• Welder average salary: £25,000 to £45,000
• Welder typical working hours: 40 to 46 hours per week

What qualifications do you need to be a welder?

You could get into this role via a college course such as a Level 2 Award, a Level 3 Diploma, or a T-level in Engineering, Manufacturing, Processing and Control (England-only). You can also do an advanced apprenticeship, apply directly if you have experience, or do specialist courses run by private training organisations.

Sources: National Careers Service, GOV.UK

This information is a guide and is constantly changing. Please check the National Careers Service website for the latest information and all the qualifications needed and the GOV.UK website for more on T-levels

For careers advice in all parts of the UK visit: National Careers Service (England), nidirect (Northern Ireland), My World of Work (Scotland) and Careers Wales (Wales).

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