National Minimum Wage

A minimum hourly rate for those of at least school leaving age and which depends on an individual's age and also whether they are on an apprenticeship, or not.

For people aged 23 or over the minimum wage is termed the National Living Wage. The rate changes yearly on 1st April, with April 2021 rates given below, per hour:

• Under 18-year-old: £4.62.
• 18- to 20-year-old: £6.56.
• 21- to 22-year-old: £8.36.
• 23 years and over: £8.91.
• Apprentice rate (under 19 or over 19 and in first year of their apprenticeship): £4.30.
• Apprentice rate (over 19 and have completed the first year of their apprenticeship), one of the 3 rates for 18-20; 21-22, or 23+ given above.

If an apprentice starts on a 2-year apprenticeship at 16 years of age they would be on a minimum of £4.30 in year 1, and then £4.62 in year 2.

An employer can pay more than this if they especially value the work of the apprentice, but many apprenticeships are advertised as paying the minimum wage.

If an apprentice starts on a 2-year apprenticeship at 19 years of age they would be on a minimum of £4.30 in year 1, and then £6.56 in year 2.


(UK Government National Minimum Wage Rates)