There are many assumptions and misconceptions about apprenticeships. If you’re still pondering on starting an apprenticeship, here are five reasons (and a bonus reason) why you should consider it.
Apprenticeship are for people who don’t work hard at school
That’s lies! There really is more than one way to get the qualifications you want. Like two sides of a coin, there are people in society who excel at their academic studies because they enjoy the theoretical side of learning. At the same time, there are others who do extremely well learning in a hands-on and practical environment. Although, it’s important to remember that some apprenticeships have a mixture of practical and theory.
Is it true that apprenticeships are only available to school leavers?
This is false. Apprenticeships welcome people from all backgrounds, they don’t discriminate. It doesn’t matter if you’re taking your first or next step on to the career ladder, you can start a new apprenticeship at any age.
Apprenticeships don’t pay very well
An apprenticeship gives you the opportunity to earn and learn at the same time. The current minimum hourly rate for an apprentice is £4.15, don’t forget not all companies pay the minimum rate – some pay more. Some companies even offer starting salaries, along with company benefits. So, do your research. Compare and contrast.
And remember, apprenticeships are actually debt free (like music to your ears).
Apprentices don’t progress very well; they get stuck in the same role for years
You guessed it; this one is false too. You see, one of the best things about apprenticeships are the progression prospects they offer. As an apprentice, you’re always learning valuable skills – the skills you learn are transferable; opening more opportunities to move between job roles and different sectors.
Apprenticeship schemes are only for labour intensive jobs
Apprenticeships aren’t just for aspiring electricians, mechanics, and construction workers. As the saying goes, different horses for different courses – there are thousands of apprenticeship schemes out there ranging from Digital Marketing, Hospitality, Operations Management to IT. You just need to find the right one for you. Since you’ve gotten this far, you should check out what apprenticeships we have to offer.
Aah – the final one, to degree or not to degree – that is the question
Although university is a popular route with school leavers, more and more apprenticeship programmes now offer degrees.
Did you know that you can now finish your apprenticeship with the same level qualification as a graduate? And an added bonus is that when you finish your course, not only will you have degree level qualifications, but you’ll also have the right industry experience, which will work in your favour when job hunting. Not to mention that, you won’t have any student debts to pay off.
