You could do a higher national diploma or degree in illustration or a related subject like fine art or graphic design.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- between 1 and 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a higher national diploma or degree
Illustrators create images to communicate ideas, tell stories, or provide visual explanations for a variety of clients. Their work appears in books, magazines, advertisements, packaging, websites, and even animations. In the UK, illustrators may work in-house for publishers or design agencies, but many are self-employed and work freelance on a project basis. The role involves discussing requirements with clients, researching subjects, developing concepts, and using traditional or digital techniques to create final artwork. Strong drawing skills, creativity, and the ability to adapt to different styles are important in this career. Illustrators often build a portfolio to showcase their work and attract new clients.
Illustrators in the UK typically earn between £18,000 and £40,000 per year, with experienced professionals and those working for established publishers or design agencies earning more.
According to the Creative Industries Federation, there are around 15,000 professional illustrators working in the UK, with many more working on a freelance or part-time basis.
Over 60 percent of UK illustrators work freelance, often taking on projects from publishing, advertising, education, and digital media sectors.
Specialises in creating illustrations for children's storybooks, working closely with authors and publishers to bring stories to life.
Produces artwork to accompany magazine and newspaper articles, helping to visually explain or add interest to written content.
Creates detailed drawings or digital images to help explain medical or scientific information, often working for textbooks, journals, or educational materials.
Spend time every day sketching to improve your technique and creativity.
Try drawing a variety of subjects, such as people, animals, objects, and scenes. Experiment with different materials like pencils, inks, watercolours, and digital tools to find your preferred style. Building a daily habit helps you progress and develop confidence in your skills.
Study different styles of illustration and experiment to find your own unique approach.
Look at the work of professional illustrators in books, magazines, online portfolios, and social media. Try recreating their styles as practice, then adapt techniques that appeal to you. Developing a signature style can help you stand out in the industry.
Study art and design at GCSE, A-level, or equivalent to build foundational knowledge.
Courses in art, graphic design, or illustration can teach you essential techniques and introduce you to industry-standard software. Schools and colleges may also provide access to workshops, equipment, and guidance from experienced teachers.
Consider a university degree or diploma in illustration or a related subject.
Many illustrators complete a degree in illustration, graphic design, or fine art. Some colleges offer HNDs or foundation degrees as well. These programmes often include work placements, portfolio development, and opportunities to network with industry professionals.
Assemble a collection of your best work to showcase your abilities to potential clients or employers.
Include a range of projects that demonstrate your skills, creativity, and adaptability. Show examples of editorial, book, advertising, and digital illustration if possible. Keep your portfolio up to date as your style and experience evolve.
Share your illustrations on personal websites and social media platforms.
Building an online presence helps you reach a wider audience and attract commissions. Use platforms like Instagram, Behance, or a personal website to display your portfolio. Engage with the creative community and potential clients by posting regularly and participating in illustration challenges.
Apply for internships, freelance projects, or entry-level positions to gain industry experience.
Real-world experience helps you understand client briefs, deadlines, and working with feedback. Look for opportunities in publishing houses, advertising agencies, or online platforms that connect freelancers with clients. Volunteering for local projects or competitions can also build your reputation.
Connect with other illustrators, designers, and clients to grow your professional network.
Attend industry events, exhibitions, and workshops to meet potential collaborators and clients. Joining professional organisations, such as the Association of Illustrators, can provide support, resources, and exposure to new opportunities.
Graphic designers combine images, typography, and layout to create visual communications for branding, advertising, and print or digital publications.
Animators create moving images for film, television, games, and digital media, often working closely with illustrators to bring characters and scenes to life.
Concept artists develop visual ideas for characters, environments, and props for video games, films, and animations, using illustration and design skills.
Please note that this may not be a comprehensive list of available apprenticeships. To view a more complete collection, visit the Find an apprenticeship service.
Click on any card to be redirected to their vacancy page.
DISPLAY MANAGER LTD
( Added 18 Sep 2025 - 1 position available )
Northern Skills is recruiting on behalf of Display Manager Ltd for an audiovisual technician apprentice. You would primarily be working on site as part of a team delivering high-quality corporate AV solutions in both first fix (construction site) and second fix (finished premises) environments.
Closing date: in 29 days
Possible start date: 08 Dec 2025
ART CLASSES GROUP LIMITED
( Added 18 Sep 2025 - 1 position available )
An opportunity to work as a Content Creator. Working in our art organisation will provide a real-world experience in a dynamic and creative environment. Apprentice will work alongside experienced staff, can gain practical skills and knowledge that can be applied to various roles.
Closing date: in 6 days
Possible start date: 20 Nov 2025
EXCELLENCE-SOLUTIONS LIMITED
( Added 22 Sep 2025 - 5 positions available )
This Content Creator Apprenticeship is the perfect opportunity to gain hands-on experience while working with businesses to build their online presence. As an apprentice, you will learn how to plan, create, and distribute digital content across various platforms, including social media, websites, and email marketing.
Closing date: in 11 days
Possible start date: 30 Oct 2025
STATESIDE DISTRIBUTION LIMITED
( Added 24 Sep 2025 - 1 position available )
As a Content Creator Apprentice at Stateside Distribution, you’ll play a key role in showcasing our product range and building our online community. Collaborating with various teams, you’ll focus on creating engaging TikTok content, hosting live streams, and developing marketing strategies to boost brand visibility.
Closing date: in 10 days
Possible start date: 30 Oct 2025
LIVE WIRE EVENT SOLUTIONS LTD
( Added 25 Sep 2025 - 1 position available )
Northern Skills is recruiting on behalf of Live Wire event Solutions for an audiovisual apprentice. As an apprentice Live Wire Technician, you’ll work your technical magic in an environment that rewards your dedication with challenge and fulfilment. If you’ve got the skillset, mindset and you’re ready for a rewarding time, apply!
Closing date: in 9 days
Possible start date: 30 Oct 2025
SPECTRUM BRANDS (UK) LIMITED
( Added 26 Sep 2025 - 2 positions available )
Do you live and breathe TikTok, Insta Reels, and YouTube Shorts? Always filming, editing, and posting? Happy both behind the camera and in front of it? If you’re the friend who’s always making “scroll-stopping” content, we want YOU on our team!
Closing date: in 16 days
Possible start date: 03 Nov 2025
You can get into this job through:
You could do a higher national diploma or degree in illustration or a related subject like fine art or graphic design.
You'll usually need:
You could do a course in art and design to help you become an illustrator.
Entry requirements for these courses vary.
You could take an apprenticeship to learn some of the skills you need to get started as an illustrator, like:
You'll usually need:
If you do not have art or design qualifications, you can contact companies directly to share examples of your work.
You can find information on the Writers' & Artists' Yearbook on how to:
As a freelance illustrator you'll need a portfolio to showcase your work. You'll need this to get onto a course or to show clients.
You might want to create your portfolio on:
If you're working freelance, you can sell your work directly or through an agent.
Agents have access to a large network of buyers and will take a percentage of your sales as commission. The Society of Artists Agents has details of agents as well as examples of artists' work.
You can get more details about working in illustration from the Association of Illustrators (AOI).
You can get information on working in creative careers from Discover Creative Careers.
Explore other careers or use our AI to discover personalised paths based on your interests.
Address
Developing Experts Limited
Exchange Street Buildings
35-37 Exchange Street
Norwich
NR2 1DP
UK
Phone
01603 273515
Email
[email protected]
Copyright 2025 Developing Experts, All rights reserved.
Unlock expert-designed lessons, resources, and assessments tailored for educators. No credit card required.
Claim Your Free Trial →