You are here
Is an apprenticeship right for you?

Are you considering undertaking an apprenticeship or looking for more information on why it might be beneficial for you to do so? Well, you’ve come to the right place.
When exploring your options for further study or career opportunities, it can be difficult to decide exactly what the right choice is for you moving forward. You may have a very clear idea of what you want to do and where you hope your career will lead you but you might not. Should you apply for University and study for the next four-six years to expand your learning further or should you consider moving into an entry-level position? It can be a difficult decision and it is one that may potentially impact the rest of your working career.
There is, however, another option. An apprenticeship; designed specifically to enable individuals to gain both practical and theoretical experience whilst working directly in the role and/or industry they wish to pursue a career within.
If you are interested in an internship you can apply while you are still at school but to start a programme or be considered for such opportunities you will need to meet the following minimum requirements:
- Aged 16 or over by the end of the summer holidays
- Living in England
- Not in full-time study
Different companies will structure their apprenticeships differently and offer different levels which determine the equivalent level of education the programme will provide.
Levels of apprenticeship
Intermediate apprenticeships
Advanced apprenticeships
Higher apprenticeships
Degree apprenticeships
The benefits of an apprenticeship
When undertaking an apprenticeship the benefits are twofold. First of all, you will be gaining essential practical and theoretical experience in a role or industry you are interested in. Secondly, you will be earning a wage.
One of the most difficult things graduates find when looking for work is that they haven’t got the right qualifications or experience and while they are studying find it hard to balance and study at the same time.
Working as an apprentice you will develop invaluable skills and have guided practical experience. You will be working alongside experienced staff and experts from the field gaining job-specific skills as you learn. When you are not training on the job, one day a week you will be allocated time to study in a course or degree related to your role. In addition to this experience and knowledge, you will also earn a wage and will be entitled to holiday pay. The wage you will receive is set at the National Minimum Wage and you’ll get at least 20 paid holiday days per year, plus bank holidays.