Superdrug and Savers are celebrating record growth in its Rise Up Apprenticeship Programme, which has doubled in size over the past five years and supported more than 5,000 apprentices to date. Record demand is expected this year with applications now open.
The scheme’s continued expansion reflects a growing shift among young people, including those receiving their A-level and GCSE results this month, towards earning while learning and seeking hands-on experience over traditional university study.
Amy Davies, people director at Superdrug & Savers, said: “With student debt now averaging £44,000 and graduate job prospects becoming increasingly competitive, we’ve seen rising numbers applying for our Rise Up Apprenticeship Programme, and this year we’re expecting record demand.
“As more people look for alternatives to university, our scheme stands out because it offers paid, hands-on experience, nationally recognised qualifications, and clear career progression. My top tips for applicants are to show your enthusiasm for learning, be open to new challenges, and think about the unique skills you can bring to our business. Those qualities really help candidates stand out.”
Superdrug and Savers together are one of the very few employer providers in the UK, meaning all apprentices are trained in-house, and its Rise Up programme is on track to support more than 600 active apprentices in 2026 across Superdrug and Savers. With an impressive track record – over 90% secure long-term roles, and over 70% complete their training (10% above the industry average) – Rise Up has earned recognition from the Department for Education, ranking Superdrug and Savers among the UK’s top 10 FMCG companies for apprenticeships.
Jake Hardcastle joined Superdrug as an apprentice straight from school and has risen through the ranks to become the retailer’s Digital Content Lead, proving that apprenticeships can lead to high-impact roles across the business. Jake said: “I joined Superdrug as an apprentice straight from school with no idea how far it could take me. I learnt, earned and grew every single day, and that experience gave me the confidence to aim higher. Now part of the Internal Communications team, I can honestly say my apprenticeship opened doors I never thought possible, and it all started with taking that first step.”
Another Superdrug apprentice, Jodie Pearson, joined after struggling in a traditional education environment due to ADHD. Jodie said: “I never thought I’d find a role that suited the way I learn. The support, structure and real-life experience made me feel capable for the first time, and now I’m thriving in my role at Superdrug. I would urge anyone who is thinking about applying to do so, you never know where this opportunity could take you.”
This year, the North West currently leads the way with the highest number of apprentices, closely followed by the East of England, underlining the role of regional investment in skills and training. Most apprentices join straight after GCSEs or A-levels, but the scheme also welcomes applicants from a wide range of ages and backgrounds, including those changing careers.
The programme offers three tailored routes to suit different career stages:
- Apprentice Sales Advisor: Designed for school leavers aged 16–19, offering a first role in retail and a nationally recognised qualification over 13 months.
- Apprentice Team Leader: For those aged 19+, this 13–15-month programme prepares participants for junior management roles.
- Apprentice Manager: Open to all ages, this 15–24 month pathway develops leadership or specialist skills for more senior positions.
The Rise Up scheme supports the government’s mission to ensure young people gain the skills needed for the future workforce, contributing to record employer investment and incentives announced in the latest industrial strategy.
Applications are now open for the next intake of Rise Up apprenticeships. Candidates must be out of full-time education and
