From 1 April 2026, the UK Government is introducing significant updates to the National Minimum Wage (NMW) and National Living Wage (NLW). We are committed to ensuring our partner employers remain compliant and our apprentices are fully informed about their earnings.
Understanding these changes is essential for effective budget planning and ensuring that the “earn while you learn” model remains a rewarding pathway for all.
The New Rates (From April 2026)
The following table outlines the updated hourly rates. Please note that the Apprentice Rate applies to those aged under 19, or those aged 19 and over who are in the first year of their apprenticeship.
|
Category |
Rate from April 2025 |
New Rate from April 2026 |
|
National Living Wage (21+) |
£12.21 |
£12.71 |
|
18-20 Year Old Rate |
£10.00 |
£10.85 |
|
Under 18 Rate |
£7.55 |
£8.00 |
|
Apprentice Rate |
£7.55 |
£8.00 |
Guidance for Employers: Ensuring Compliance
For our employer partners, these changes may necessitate a review of your payroll systems and apprenticeship levy strategy. Ensuring your team is paid correctly is not only a legal requirement but a vital component of staff retention and morale.
- Review Your Payroll: Ensure all systems are updated to reflect these rates for the first pay period on or after 1 April 2026.
- Identify Birthdays: Remember that an apprentice’s rate may change if they turn 19 or 21 during their programme.
- MITSkills Support: If you have questions regarding how these rates impact your specific apprenticeship standards or funding, our account managers are available to provide expert guidance.
Guidance for Apprentices: Your Pay Entitlement
As an apprentice, it is important to understand how these increases affect your take-home pay.
- Under 19 or Year 1: You are entitled to the apprentice rate of £8.00 per hour.
- 19+ and Year 2+: If you are aged 19 or over and have completed the first year of your apprenticeship, you are entitled to the full National Minimum Wage for your age group (e.g., £10.85 if you are 19 or 20).