Deciding on your next step after Year 11 or 13 can be daunting, but apprenticeships offer a dynamic and increasingly popular path to a successful career. They are a great way to blend academic study with real-world work experience.
Apprenticeships are a great option for many students because they allow you to earn while you learn. Instead of accumulating student debt, you receive a wage from day one, gaining financial independence while you train. This approach is highly valued by employers who are keen to develop skilled talent that is ready for the demands of the modern workplace.
Furthermore, an apprenticeship provides a clear route to a qualification. Whether it’s a Level 3, Degree, or even a Master’s degree apprenticeship, you’ll work towards a nationally recognized qualification that is directly relevant to your industry. This means you gain both the hands-on skills and the formal credentials needed to excel in your chosen field.
Apprenticeship Myths
“Apprenticeships are only for manual trades.”
Reality: Apprenticeships are now available in a huge range of industries and professions. While traditional trades like plumbing and construction are still popular, you can now do an apprenticeship in fields like law, digital marketing, finance, and even nursing and accountancy.
“Apprentices only earn a low wage.”
Reality: While there is a national minimum wage for apprentices, many employers pay significantly more to attract top talent. The average apprentice salary can be competitive, and the pay typically increases as you progress in your training and gain more skills. The real financial benefit is that you earn a salary from day one while getting a qualification, avoiding the student debt that comes with a traditional university degree.
“Apprenticeships don’t lead to a degree.”
Reality: This is a common misconception. Apprenticeships now have different levels, and you can achieve qualifications from Level 2 (equivalent to GCSEs) all the way up to Level 6 and 7 Degree Apprenticeships. These programs allow you to work towards a full bachelor’s or master’s degree, with your training and university fees paid for by your employer and the government.
“Apprenticeships are for people who aren’t academic.”
Reality: Apprenticeships are for people with a wide range of academic abilities. Many higher-level and degree apprenticeships require A-level or equivalent qualifications, and they are academically rigorous. The difference is in the learning style. An apprenticeship is perfect for those who want to apply their knowledge in a practical, hands-on environment while still gaining a formal qualification.
Where can I find more information?
https://www.apprenticeships.gov.uk/apprentices to find out more about how apprenticeships work
https://www.gov.uk/apply-apprenticeship to search live apprenticeship vacancies across the UK
https://www.hopinto.co.uk/explore-careers/all-about-apprenticeships/ to find out more about apprenticeship opportunities in Hertfordshire and prepare for the selection process