Jessica O'ConnorAs thousands of students recieve their A-Level results today, new labour market data suggests that university is not the only path to a secure and well-paid career.
Figures from CV-Library have revealed that some roles offer salaries of more than £60,000 without requiring a degree.
Topping the list is train driver, with an average salary of £60,850, alongside structured training, long-term stability and benefits.
Other high-earning positions include carpenters, with average salaries of £45,527, and plumbers at £44,529.
Both offer apprenticeship routes and paid training opportunities.
The analysis of live vacancies from January to July 2025 highlighted strong demand across multiple sectors.
Chefs accounted for 16,519 vacancies during the period, administrators 15,472, warehouse operatives 14,810, electricians 12,245 and sales executives 12,062.
These roles, according to CV-Library, present opportunities for career growth and training without the cost of university tuition.
Across the top 20 jobs not requiring a degree, salaries ranged from £21,500 for baristas to more than £60,000 for train drivers.
Other notable occupations include HGV drivers (£41,891), estate agents (£40,174), police constables (£34,512), IT support technicians (£30,016) and healthcare assistants (£28,037).
Lee Biggins, founder and chief executive of CV-Library, said: “Looking back, I can honestly say that the most important thing is figuring out where you want to go in life.
“If you’re academically minded then great, but if not then don’t lose hope – there are options out there for you.
“School is a good foundation, but you can build on what you learnt – I discovered there were routes to success which didn’t just revolve around the grades you achieved.
“It’s better to be successful at life than successful at school, because life lasts a lot longer. It’s also a lot more fun!”
