Shell UK apprenticeship programme: What it is and what you can expect
Choosing your first step into working life is rarely straightforward, especially if university is not your path. The Shell Apprenticeship Programme in the UK combines hands-on work in a real role with structured learning and a nationally recognised qualification. You can build practical skills on the job, work with experienced colleagues, and learn while earning.
This article explains what the programme offers, who it is for, what we look for in applicants, and how to prepare when opportunities open. The programme connects directly to Shell UK's work on the energy transition, giving you a practical route into this field.
What the Shell UK Apprenticeship Programme is and who it is for
The Shell UK Apprenticeship Programme
The Shell UK Apprenticeship Programme is a combination of practical work in a real role with planned off-the-job learning. Programme length varies by discipline and typically runs from 18 to 30 months.
You complete your day-to-day responsibilities while working towards a nationally recognised qualification through a training provider.
Who the programme is designed for
The Shell UK Apprenticeship Programme is for school leavers and people without a degree who want a practical route into the energy industry. We welcome applicants from diverse backgrounds and experiences.
If you have or are studying for a degree, consider our Shell Assessed Internship Programme or Shell Graduate programme instead.
Key eligibility criteria to be aware of
Check individual programme descriptions carefully, as specific roles may have additional criteria:
- You normally finish your A-levels or further education qualifications before the apprenticeship start date
- You can provide valid right-to-work documentation and a National Insurance number
- You have lived in the UK or EU for three years before the apprenticeship start date
- The apprenticeship provides substantive new skills and knowledge for your role
- You are not undertaking another apprenticeship at the same time
Qualities Shell looks for in apprenticeship applicants
Shell UK apprenticeships look for people with an interest in contributing to the energy transition and the mindset to learn consistently. Focus on showing how you work, not trying to sound perfect. Keep examples clear and grounded in real situations.
1. Learning mindset and taking initiative:
Show responsibility, such as managing tasks in a part-time job, helping coordinate a school activity, or creating a study routine to meet deadlines.
2. Curiosity and adapting when priorities change:
Share a moment when you adjusted quickly, such as changing your approach during a team project or picking up a new process at work.
3. Clear thinking and fact-based decisions:
Explain how you gathered information, identified what mattered, and chose a sensible next step.
4. Teamwork, communication, and attention to detail:
Demonstrate how you work with others, ask good questions, and check your work when accuracy matters.
Why join the Shell UK Apprenticeship Programme?
An apprenticeship can suit people who want structured learning alongside work, with experienced colleagues around them ready to help. The programme combines real responsibilities, formal development, and a network of colleagues who can help you settle in and build capability over time.
Work on real projects
Apprentices contribute to day-to-day work that helps teams deliver solutions to energy-related challenges and keep operations running safely and reliably. What you do depends on your discipline:
- Supporting maintenance and reliability activities by helping track checks, actions, and follow-ups
- Assisting with testing, inspections, or data collection that helps teams understand performance and manage risk
- Improving how information is recorded and shared, so decisions are based on accurate, consistent inputs
- Helping teams coordinate tasks across people and systems, especially when timing and compliance matter
- Your scope of work can build as your confidence grows, with feedback from the people around you.
Supporting your development
We describe a development structure through the programme, including an onboarding approach to help you familiarise yourself with Shell UK's businesses:
- A line manager who sets priorities and gives feedback as you learn
- A training provider for your off-the-job learning and qualification requirements
- A mentor and buddy to help you settle in, ask questions, and learn from experience
If you are comparing apprenticeships, this development model is worth noting. It affects how quickly you can build confidence and how well you can balance work, study, and development.
How to prepare to apply for Shell UK apprenticeships
Shell application for internships are not always open. If the programme is closed when you visit the page, use the time to prepare well, and sign up to Shell Talent Community, so you receive alerts when the programme becomes available.
Step 1: Learn about Shell and the programme
Begin with the programme page and read individual role descriptions when they are available. As you research, note:
- Which disciplines appeal to you and why
- What the role involves day to day, including learning commitments
- Any additional requirements linked to the discipline or programme
- The type of environment you will be joining, including how teams work and learn together
Step 2: Match your skills and check if this path fits you
Apprenticeships work well when you are ready for structured learning alongside work. Do a quick skills check against the qualities Shell lists:
- Choose two examples that show how you learn, adjust, and work with others
- Identify one gap, such as confidence speaking up, time management, or attention to detail
- Create a simple plan to improve it, using real practice rather than general intentions
This helps you decide whether this route fits you, and it gives you clearer material to use when you apply.
Step 3: Prepare your story and questions
When applications open, you will need to explain your motivation clearly and show how you approach tasks. Prepare:
- A short explanation of why you want this programme and what interests you about the energy transition
- Two examples of responsibility, teamwork, or problem solving, written with a clear beginning, middle, and end
- A short list of questions about the role, the development available, and how learning is managed alongside the job
Aim for clarity over detail. Shell is looking for how you think and learn, not perfect wording. You can also read our job interview preparation tips for more guidance on presenting yourself effectively.
Power your progress with the Shell UK Apprenticeship Programme
If you want a route into the energy industry that combines a real role with formal development, the Shell UK Apprenticeship Programme can be a practical option for people who value structured learning and working alongside experienced colleagues. Keep your focus on fit, readiness, and evidence from your own experience.
When you are ready, sign up to our Talent Community, visit careers at Shell to see other career opportunities.