Cash in or branch out: industry experts explain how to get started as a banker

By the Editorial Team · Friday, October 9, 2026

Major banks like Lloyds and HSBC are expanding access to banking careers through events, apprenticeships, and flexible education programs that welcome candidates with diverse academic backgrounds. This shift reflects the industry's growing focus on inclusivity and broad skill sets beyond traditional finance degrees, opening more entry points for young people and non-traditional applicants.

Banking encompasses a wide range of roles beyond the traditional image of tellers and executives, offering opportunities for individuals with diverse backgrounds and varying levels of education. Industry experts emphasize that a university degree is not always a prerequisite to enter the sector, noting that non-traditional career paths are increasingly common.

While many picture bank employees as either branch staff handling transactions or high-level professionals managing investments, banking also includes less visible positions such as supply chain finance and risk management. Supply chain finance supports the timely payment to manufacturers and logistics companies, ensuring goods can be transported worldwide. Risk management focuses on reducing potential losses a bank may face if borrowers default on loans.

To explore career options within banking, prospective candidates are encouraged to seek direct engagement with financial institutions. In the United Kingdom, major banks frequently hold events designed to introduce students and parents to various roles. Lloyds Bank, for instance, hosts Skillsfest weekends across multiple locations, providing opportunities for people aged 14 to 19 to visit offices and learn about different jobs from bank employees. Additionally, Lloyds runs an online Careers Live event on the first Tuesday of every month, with past sessions accessible via the bank’s YouTube channel.

HSBC promotes similar career events targeted at students internationally, including offerings in the UK and Hong Kong. Job openings and internships are generally listed on banks’ official career websites, making regular monitoring essential for timely applications.

Regarding educational requirements, banks report hiring graduates from a broad spectrum of academic disciplines. Maria Kokkinou, chief people officer at NatWest Group, highlighted this diversity by noting the company recently welcomed over 300 graduates with degrees in subjects ranging from psychology and history to maths and physics. This reflects a shift away from the traditional emphasis on finance or business degrees.

Moreover, some banks provide apprenticeship programs and work placements for younger candidates who may not have completed university. Lloyds Bank offers apprenticeships to students who have finished their national exams at around age 16 and supports those pursuing T-level qualifications—a vocational alternative to A-levels—with industry placements lasting up to 45 days.

Several institutions also facilitate part-time or on-the-job degree opportunities for school leavers, further expanding entry points into the industry. These varied pathways aim to accommodate different educational backgrounds and career aspirations, underscoring the banking sector’s commitment to inclusivity and skill development.

This article was reported by synthesizing coverage from multiple independent news outlets to present a balanced, unbiased account. Read about our editorial standards. Spotted an error? Let us know.