Vocational qualifications, technical routes and apprenticeships
There are many paths to finding an exciting, fulfilling career in physics, and they don’t all involve going to university. Some routes will even let you earn while you learn.
From BTECs to Cambridge Technicals, from physics apprenticeships to building a career as a technician, find out more about what’s possible, where physics could take you – and hear from people who have chosen to follow these less well-known pathways.
Vocational qualifications in England, Wales and Northern Ireland
Love physics but don’t think A-levels are right for you? Don’t worry – you still have options. Learn how physics can form part of a BTEC or Cambridge Technical.
Apprenticeships explained
Apprenticeships are real, paid jobs with training programmes attached. Interested? We have all the information you need right here.
Meet the apprentice: Emily
Emily is a technical apprentice at Leonardo in Scotland, working at the forefront of the defence industry in the UK. She explains why she chose the apprentice route and what the benefits are.
What is a technician?
Technicians play a vital role in our society and work in virtually every sector and industry. They are the linchpins of the economy, driving innovation, productivity and generally keeping things running smoothly. The important work that technicians do is as diverse as their career paths.