What qualifications do I need for an F1 apprenticeship?

Requirements vary by programme and level. Many engineering apprenticeships ask for good GCSEs including maths, English and a science, and higher or degree apprenticeships usually require A levels or equivalent in maths and a science or technology subject. Always check the specific advert.

What is a degree apprenticeship?

A degree apprenticeship lets you work for an employer and study for a university degree at the same time. In England, your tuition is funded by the employer and government, and you are paid a salary, so you can graduate with experience and without tuition fee debt.

Is an apprenticeship a good route into motorsport?

Yes. Apprenticeships are a respected route into motorsport and many experienced people in the industry started that way. You gain hands-on skills, build relationships inside the business and earn while you learn.

Formula 1 Apprenticeships: A Guide for School Leavers and Parents

Q: Do Formula 1 teams offer apprenticeships?

Yes. Several UK-based Formula 1 teams and their technology partners run apprenticeship programmes in areas such as engineering, composites, machining, electronics and manufacturing. Places are competitive, so it is worth checking team careers pages regularly and registering for alerts.

The short answer: Formula 1 and wider motorsport offer apprenticeships in engineering, composites, machining, electronics and manufacturing, at levels ranging from advanced apprenticeships after GCSEs to degree apprenticeships after A levels. They are competitive, so the strongest applicants show genuine hands-on interest, apply early and look across the whole motorsport industry, not only Formula 1 teams.

Nicola Nevill spent over two decades in elite motorsport focusing on early-career development, including apprentices and graduates. She also has a son on a degree apprenticeship, so understands the process from a parent’s side too.

What apprentices do in motorsport

Composites: laminating and finishing the carbon fibre parts that make up much of the car
Machining: producing precision metal components
Mechanical and electrical engineering: supporting design, build and test teams
Electronics: wiring looms, sensors and control systems
Manufacturing, inspection and quality: making sure every part is right
Business functions: some teams also offer apprenticeships in areas such as IT, finance and operations

Apprenticeship levels in England

Advanced (Level 3): equivalent to A levels, often starting after GCSEs
Higher (Levels 4 and 5): equivalent to a foundation degree or HND
Degree (Levels 6 and 7): a full bachelor’s or master’s degree while working

Apprentices are paid a wage, and training costs are covered by the employer and government, so there are no tuition fees for the apprentice.

Where to find vacancies

Formula 1 team careers pages, many of which are based in Oxfordshire, Northamptonshire and the surrounding area
Motorsport suppliers and engineering companies across Motorsport Valley
Other racing series and teams, such as GT, endurance and single-seater teams
The UK government’s “Find an apprenticeship” service on GOV.UK

Vacancies often open many months before the start date, so start looking early in the academic year before you want to begin.

How to make an application stand out

Show what you have made or fixed. Karting, bikes, model building, school engineering projects, F1 in Schools or any hands-on hobby counts.
Explain why that role. Be specific about why you want composites, machining or electronics, not just “F1”.
Get the basics right. Accuracy matters in motorsport, so check your application carefully.
Prepare for practical tests. Some schemes include aptitude, maths or hands-on assessments.
Apply widely. An apprenticeship with a supplier or another series is a great start, and many people move into F1 later.

A note for parents

Apprenticeships are a serious, respected route, not a fallback from university. Your support with researching options, keeping track of deadlines and practising interviews can make a real difference. For the graduate route, see our guide on how to get into Formula 1 as an engineer.