Balancing the demands of a degree apprenticeship makes you realise the height of responsibility they have. You’re juggling a full-time job and rigorous academic coursework, all while trying to maintain a personal life.
Here are 5 top tips on how to navigate this pathway from a 1st year Degree Apprentice:
⭐️Prioritise and plan!
Effective time management is your best friend! Start each week by listing your tasks and deadlines for both work and study. Using digital planners or apps to keep track of your schedule can help you stay more organised in comparison to using something like sticky notes. Prioritise your tasks based on urgency and importance, and allocate specific time slots for studying and work-related projects.
⭐️Communicate openly!
Transparent communication with your employer and academic mentors is crucial. Let your line manager and team know about your study schedule, especially during exam periods or assignment deadlines. Similarly, inform your academic advisors and lecturers about your work commitments. Most organisations and institutions are super supportive as long as you keep them in the loop!!
⭐️Set boundaries + know your rights!
Apprentices must spend at least 20% of their working hours completing ‘off-the-job’ training. This is protected time and is a legal requirement for apprenticeship delivery. This requirement is part of the apprenticeship funding rules set out by the Education and Skills Funding Agency (ESFA). Employers are responsible for ensuring that apprentices receive this time to study and develop their skills without financial penalty or any deduction in pay, so make sure you discuss this fact with your line manager and clearly state the time in which you will be doing this: maybe every Monday from 9 am-11 am!
⭐️Create a study-friendly environment!
When it’s time to study, ensure your study space is conducive to concentration. This is especially important if you study in your bedroom. Being in a quiet and well-organised area with all necessary materials can make a huge difference to your study routine because having everything you need with no distractions helps to avoid procrastination!
⭐️ Utilise resources!
Take advantage of all available resources you’re provided with in your degree apprenticeship. This includes library access, study groups, mentorship programs and training courses. Many degree apprenticeships offer free student support services, so don’t hesitate to use them. Leveraging these resources can save you a lot of time and effort.
⭐️ Self-care is non-negotiable!
Yes, you have to hustle and get everything done, but don’t forget that you need to take care of yourself. Healthy eating, exercise, and sufficient sleep are all so important. Schedule short breaks during study sessions and work hours to recharge; 9-5 doesn’t mean you aren’t allowed to take a five-minute screen break! Burnout is a very real thing, so maintaining your physical and mental well-being is essential to helping you on your journey!
Balancing work and study as a degree apprentice is undeniably challenging, but with careful planning and a healthy routine, it’s entirely achievable. Remember that every step you take brings you closer to your career goals and personal growth!❤️
