What you do when you finish either your GCSEs or A-levels will be something that many young people are beginning to consider right now. Even though the academic year has plenty of time yet to run, it is well worth thinking about what to do next. Many will look for academic routes (whether sixth form or university), but these are not the only options that you have for learning more and getting ready for work. Among these options are Technical Baccalaureate, National Vocational Qualifications (NVQs), and the BTEC (which stands for ‘Business and Technology Education Council.’ We will look at all of these tomorrow in our blog, but today we will introduce you to Apprenticeships and Traineeships. What are they, and what could they offer to you?
Apprenticeships are a great choice for anyone who wants to get into a particular trade or industry. Offering on-the-job training, a qualification, and a wage, an apprenticeship is a lot like a regular job. In exchange for what is often a lower wage while you complete the apprenticeship, you will be given full training and time to study for a recognised qualification. This study time usually consists of one day per week.
Many apprentices go straight into employment once they qualify, often with the company they were apprentices at. Apprenticeship levels vary depending on your own level of education and typically take between one and four years to complete.
Apprenticeships are available in a wide variety of sectors, with more being added all the time. As increasing focus is placed on the apprenticeship system, many careers that previously required a university degree are now being offered as apprenticeships.
With real work experience, this debt-free option is attracting increasing numbers of young people who want to get their careers off to a good start without the financial burden university can bring.
If you feel you are not quite ready to commit to a full apprenticeship, a traineeship can offer a great alternative. A traineeship can help build your skills and confidence as they offer work experience, work preparation training, and support in English and Maths (if you need it). Lasting between six weeks and six months, a traineeship is not as large a commitment as an apprenticeship, but can still offer you an insight into a workplace.
A traineeship is great for those who are struggling to get an apprenticeship or who have learning difficulties or very little experience. While they are generally unpaid, a traineeship will often cover costs for meals and travel.
Successful completion of a traineeship will not only improve your skills but will also often lead to a job interview if there is an opening available. Otherwise, trainees will be given a reference or an exit interview ahead of their next move.
A traineeship can be a great way to bridge the gap between school and work or an apprenticeship.
Check back for more alternative routes tomorrow.
