Deciding what to do with your future feels stressful, especially after getting your exam results. An apprenticeship is a valid career that thousands of young people choose after their GCSE and A Level results. A great alternative to university or college, an apprenticeship could be perfect for you.
Below are some of the key reasons why you should go for an apprenticeship this year.
Earn money straight away
Earning your own money is a big part of becoming independent. With an apprenticeship you start earning a wage from the moment you begin, so you can save for your future or invest in essential life skills, such as driving lessons. As a student you can get student loans but if you wanted more money, you’d have to find a part time job on top of your studies.
An apprentice under the age of 19 or in their first year is entitled to £3.70 an hour. Many employers do choose to pay more. After completing the first year of your apprenticeship you’ll be entitled to the national minimum wage for your age group.
Build valuable work experience
Work experience is one of the most important things employers look for on your CV. A good qualification is helpful, but relevant experience is very desirable. As an apprentice you’ll be getting valuable work experience that gives you the skills and competencies to succeed in life.
Get a qualification
Most apprenticeships will include a nationally recognised qualification, which you get once you’ve completed your apprenticeship. You will spend roughly 20% of the working week studying your qualification. Depending on the apprenticeship, you may have face-to-face sessions, or do your learning online.
Get an early start in a company
Getting an early start in a company offers you numerous benefits. Learning about the structure and day to day operations gives you useful insights into the business, which makes you valuable. Many apprentices continue onto full time work with their employer once their apprenticeship is over, and are often promoted to higher positions within the company. Nearly 90% of apprentices stay in full time work and 67% stay with the same employer, showing that employers are interested in keeping on their apprentices.
An employer can put you onto the next level of your apprenticeship, all the way up to a degree apprenticeship (e.g accounting). You’ll be able to apply what you learn to your role straight away whilst still getting paid.
No debt with an apprenticeship
One huge difference between an apprenticeship and university is completing an apprenticeship with no debt. Your training is fully paid for so you don’t have to worry about being burdened with any debt for the rest of your life.
Conclusion
Apprenticeships offer a lot of options if you’re not entirely sure if uni or college is the right choice at the moment. Apprenticeships are a positive experience and open up a lot of options, as well as providing you with relevant work experience and a sought after qualification.
