Ace the First Question: How to Answer ‘Why Do You Want This Apprenticeship?’ Like a Pro
Introduction: Don’t Let This Question Trip You Up
Let’s face it: job interviews can be terrifying. The racing heart, the overthinking—“What if I say the wrong thing?” It’s even worse if you’re a young person who’s never even been to one before.
Then comes a question that all employers will ask. “Why do you want this apprenticeship?” or something else along the same lines. It sounds pretty simple, but this one question can decide between your success or rejection. This question is so common because employers know that their candidates have little to no work experience. They want to understand what brings you to the role.
Here’s the great news: with the right strategy, you can smash this question with a perfect answer. Think of the interview as the opportunity to prove you’re the perfect fit. Follow our guide below to craft an answer so good, it’ll have the interviewer smiling and nodding before you even finish.
The real key to crafting a perfect answer is to make it as easy as possible for the employer to understand you and your motivations. Here's a guide on how you can answer one of the most common degree apprenticeship interview questions.
What are Employers Looking For?
Let’s go through the answers employers want to connect together:
Why you’re applying for THIS role, and not any other
Why you’re applying to THIS company, and not another company
What YOU have to offer to the company, in other words, will you help make the company profit better?
Why are you passionate about THIS industry, and not some other one
So, make the recruiter’s job as easy as possible by laying out the information for them in this question. Follow our 5 steps below to ensure you have all you need in your answer.
1. Start with a Bold, Attention-Grabbing Opener
Don’t mumble. Don’t ramble. Start strong and confident.
Your first sentence should be super interesting and act as the headline for your answer. It should keep them listening, so keep it personal and fascinating.
Example:
“Ever since I got into coding by building my first website at 14, I found a growing burning passion in software development. I not only want to explore my interest in software development, but I also want to do it while working at and contributing to such an innovative organisation such as yours”
Why It Works:
This example is great at presenting an interesting personal story and example. This makes your answer unique only to you, and credible. It already answers part of the question of why you applied for this role, and the employer can see you are naturally interested. Interviewers want candidates who are deeply interested in the industry.
Pro Tip: Make sure you add a personal touch to this sentence that is relevant to the job. Don’t use generic statements about just liking the industry, and make sure it’s personal so you’re more memorable.
2. Flip the Script: Show Them What’s in It for Them
Remember that employers mainly choose candidates on how their skills and personalities can benefit the business. Make sure you’re not selfish - don’t constantly talk about the benefits for yourself, and make sure you mention ways you’ll benefit the company. Employers already know what they’re offering—now tell them why they should pick you.
Your interviewer wants to see how you’ll add value to their company. Highlight your achievements and give examples of how they’ll make an impact.
Example:
“I’m the kind of person who loves a challenge. In my last group project, I volunteered to manage the schedule and keep everyone on track, which helped us finish two days ahead of the deadline. I know I can bring that same energy and organisation to your team.”
Why It Works:
You’re proving you’re more than just interested—you’re ready to contribute. Be specific, and don’t be afraid to brag a little.
Pro Tip: Be as specific as possible in any personal examples you give. They will be even better if you can add numbers to show your achievements. For example:
“Analytical and precise is my way of working. In my last school group project, I took charge and ensured that all data we were working with was accurate, through regular check-ins with my teachers. This attention to detail allowed us to stay on track without any distractions, and we finished 2 days before the deadline. I understand that one of your company’s values is great attention to detail”
3. Show Them What You’ll Gain (and Why You’re Excited About It)
This is your “I’ve done my homework” moment.
Tell them what excites you most about the apprenticeship and why it aligns with your goals. Employers don’t want someone who’s just curious about the role—they want someone hungry to learn.
Example:
“What excites me most about this apprenticeship is the chance to learn directly from experts while getting real-world experience in marketing campaigns. I’ve completed multiple online courses from Google Digital Garage on digital marketing, as well as a virtual work experience program provided by Costa. I’m ready to take my skills to the next level with hands-on training.”
Why It Works:
You’re showing ambition and a genuine desire to grow. Bonus points when you mention specific experience or things you’ve done that relate to skills in the apprenticeships and industry.
4. Mention Something Unique About the Company That Hooked You
Generic answers are boring. Be specific, and make them feel special. Companies want to see why you chose THEIR company and their offering.
Show them you’ve done your research by mentioning something unique about their company that inspires you. Whether it’s their values, their projects, or their industry leadership, this is your chance to flatter them a little. The key thing is to not find something generic, but to dig deeper into company information to find something unique that other candidates won’t bring up.
Example:
“I love how (COMPANY NAME) prioritises sustainability in all their projects. I saw the work of your Vice President (NAME) in the company's green recycling employee project, and that’s where I understood that your brand does not only say what it does, but actually practices it..”
Why It Works:
It shows you care about more than just getting the job. Trust us, employers and recruiters can tell if you have not put the effort into researching the company and its values. One way you can find a unique fact about the company is by digging into their LinkedIn profile, as well as the profiles of those who work there. Employers also want people who believe in their mission, so make sure you can relate to it personally.
5. Close Like a Pro: Confidence Is Key
End your answer on a high note with enthusiasm and a clear commitment.
Your closing line should leave no doubt in their minds that you’re serious about this apprenticeship and working for them.
Example:
“I’m delighted by the opportunity to join and be part of your global sustainability push. With my proven data analysis skills, passion to grow, and can-do attitude, I am convinced I can bring profound benefits to the (NAME) department”.
Why It Works:
It shows you’re not just here for the ride—you’re ready to give 100%. Confidence is memorable, and enthusiasm is contagious. Ensure your employer can clearly see the potential contributions you can bring, and summarise this at the end.
Real Talk: It’s Okay to Be Nervous
If you’re feeling nervous about your interview, you’re not alone. Most people dread interviews because they feel like a test they’re unprepared for. Plus, humans feel nervous naturally when they’re put on the spot. Here’s the truth: the best answers don’t come from memorising scripts—they come from being prepared and authentic.
Takeaway: Practice your answer out loud and rehearse it, but don’t worry about being completely perfect. Your passion and enthusiasm will always shine through.
Conclusion: Be the Candidate They Remember
Answering “Why do you want this apprenticeship?” isn’t just about ticking a box—it’s your chance to stand out, be memorable, and make a connection. It's the first time you're actually asked by the interviewer why you want this role.
Here’s a recap of the formula:
Start with a strong, confident opener.
Show the employer exactly how you'll benefit their business.
Show them what you'll gain, and the excitement that will drive you
Find something extremely unique about the company
Round off your answer authentically, reaffirming your delight for this opportunity with them
With this approach, you won’t just ace the question—you’ll leave your interviewer thinking, “We need this person on our team.”