Training, Education & Apprenticeships for Ex-Military
During resettlement - and beyond - most Service leavers and ex-Armed Forces start looking at jobs that make the most of their skills, but it is important to also focus on training and development to help secure that all important first job. Training, education, and apprenticeships are some of the best ways to make a smooth military to civilian career transition, giving you the qualifications and confidence employers want. But what opportunities are out there?
Ex-Military Job Training & Apprenticeships
Life after the military often means starting fresh, and upskilling through training and apprenticeships can be the bridge to your next career. Whether you’re looking for hands-on skills, academic qualifications, or a way to retrain in a new field, there are plenty of funded options designed specifically for veterans. From ex-military apprenticeships to university support schemes, you don’t have to figure it out alone.
Education & Training Opportunities for Ex-Military in the UK
Vocational Training for Ex-Military
If you prefer practical, job-ready learning, vocational training for ex-military is a great choice. Courses range from construction and engineering to IT and health care. Many are tailored to help veterans step straight into industries that value discipline, teamwork, and technical skills.
ELCAS Resettlement Training: How to Use Your Credits
The Enhanced Learning Credits Scheme (ELCAS) gives you financial support towards approved courses. This can cover anything from project management and cyber security to health and safety qualifications. Think of it as a way to cash in on the training credits you earned while serving.
Funded Training Courses for Veterans in the UK
Veterans in the UK have access to a huge variety of funded courses that can open doors to new careers. From short training programmes to certificates and diplomas, many options are free or heavily subsidised thanks to support from the MOD, charities, and local councils.
You’ll find opportunities with trusted providers such as QA for IT skills, NEBOSH for Health & Safety, and PRINCE2 for Project Management.
Free Online Courses for Ex-Forces
If you want flexibility, there are countless free online courses for ex-forces that cover everything from coding to business management. Online learning is ideal if you’re balancing family life, a part-time job, or just testing the waters of a new career path.
Apprenticeships for Ex-Service Personnel
What’s on Offer?
Apprenticeships for ex-service personnel allow you to earn while you learn. They’re available across a huge variety of sectors: engineering, IT, healthcare, logistics, finance, and more. For veterans, they’re a smart route into industries that value structured training and real-world experience.
Why Choose an Apprenticeship?
• Paid employment while you train
• Recognised qualifications
• Industry-specific skills
• A supportive way to transition from military life into civilian work
Organisations across the UK are actively recruiting veterans for apprenticeship schemes, recognising the value of military experience. There are also exciting apprenticeship routes – from Microsoft IT apprenticeships to engineering apprenticeships with Babcock – giving you the chance to earn, learn, and build a future in a growing industry.
University Funding for Veterans in the UK (Loans, Grants & Bursaries)
If you’re thinking of taking your education further, there is university funding for veterans in the UK. This can come from:
• Standard government student finance
• ELCAS credits (for approved higher education courses)
• Charitable grants and bursaries specifically for ex-forces students
Many universities also have Armed Forces support officers who can guide you through the process.
Ex-Military Education, Training & Apprenticeships FAQs
What training can I access with my ELCAS credits?
You can use ELCAS credits for a wide range of approved courses, from vocational qualifications to degrees. Popular choices include project management, IT certifications, and health & safety training.
Are there free or discounted courses for ex-service personnel?
Yes. Veterans can access free online learning platforms, government-funded retraining schemes, and charity-supported education programmes. Many local colleges also offer discounts.
Can veterans get government funding for higher education?
Absolutely. Veterans can apply for standard student loans, plus additional support through schemes like ELCAS and university bursaries aimed at the Armed Forces community.
What types of apprenticeships are open to ex-military?
Pretty much all of them. From engineering and cyber security to teaching and healthcare, apprenticeships are open across industries. Many employers actively encourage veterans to apply.
Do military spouses qualify for educational support programmes?
In some cases, yes. Schemes like the Forces Families Jobs platform and certain MOD or charity-led programmes also support spouses with training and education opportunities.
Whether you’re aiming for a trade, a degree, or a whole new career path, the opportunities are out there. From ex-military apprenticeships, to funded online courses and higher education support, there’s a clear path to building your next chapter - and Troopr can show you the way.
What next?
👉 Search apprenticeships for ex-forces
👉 Browse the best job vacancies
