Sutton Trust Programmes: Free Access Apprenticeships and Pathways to the Professions for UK Students
The Sutton Trust has opened applications for two major programmes helping young people from less advantaged backgrounds explore university, degree apprenticeships, and professional careers. Both initiatives are completely free to attend, with travel, accommodation, food, and activities covered by the Trust and its partners.
Overview
The Sutton Trust offers two major initiatives—Access Apprenticeships and Pathways to the Professions—designed to help young students from less advantaged backgrounds explore university courses, degree apprenticeships, and competitive career sectors. These programmes provide practical guidance, exposure to leading professional environments, and opportunities to build confidence for future education and employment decisions.
All participation costs, including travel, accommodation, food, and activities, are fully covered by the Sutton Trust and its university and employer partners, making participation completely free.
Eligibility
The programmes are aimed at young people studying in the United Kingdom who meet specific school-year requirements:
- England and Wales: Year 12
- Northern Ireland: Year 13
- Scotland: S5
The initiatives have a strong focus on supporting students from less advantaged backgrounds as part of the Trust's wider social mobility mission.
Benefits
- Free participation with all key costs covered.
- Practical career exploration before making major educational decisions.
- Direct exposure to university and professional work environments.
- Insight into degree apprenticeships combining employment and higher education.
- Exploration of specialized career pathways including banking and finance, engineering, law, medicine, and veterinary medicine.
- National, regional, online, and in-person participation formats depending on the specific pathway.
How to Apply
Interested students should review the individual programme details and check specific requirements before submitting their forms. Applications can be completed via the official online application portal.
Deadline
Applications opened on 1 September 2026. Closing periods vary by specific programme, taking place across October and November 2026.