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We’ve all been there: 16 years old and expected to make a decision on what direction to take your career in. That's a lot of pressure, and there is no way to predict what you might or might not enjoy.

 So,  just to make it a little easier, we’re going to count down the top 10 incredible facts about apprenticeships that you probably didn’t know. We reckon these will help you focus on whether an apprenticeship is right for you.

1. You can get a degree while earning 🎓 

What’s this? We hear you say. Degree apprenticeships can get you just that: a degree. That means you'll get a headstart on those graduating from uni because not only will you have a degree, you'll also have business skills and real life experience earned from working.

2. Employer recognition 👔 

Employers recognise that apprentices can bring a great amount of enthusiasm, skill and loyalty to a role within their company.

According to a new survey carried out by ICM on 500 major English companies, employers were asked to rate the employability of various different qualifications. Apprentices were ranked most desirable at 15%, which scored higher than any of the other applicants in the survey. This means that not only can you gain a qualification without the debt, but you may even become head-hunted by many prestigious companies.

3. The choices are widespread 💯

The list of apprenticeships you can do covers over 170 industries.

First, sit down and have a think about what you’re good at and what interests you. There really is an apprenticeship to suit every skill. 

4. 90% of apprentices stay in work 💼 

Okay, so you’re wondering where it an apprenticeship might lead to. A whopping 90% of apprentices find a job within the field they are interested in very quickly after finishing an apprenticeship.

5. You can be any age over 16 to do one 👌

There is no age limit, Apprenticeships are a training opportunity for people of all ages and aren't just for school leavers. You are never too old to gain a qualification. Whether you're brand new to a company, or have been there for a while - your employer can help you build your skills with an apprenticeship.

6. Fully funded qualification 💰

The best part about apprenticeships? You don’t have to pay a penny! Not at any age. Large organisations are given a levy to fund apprentices and the government funds them for smaller organisations. So there is no extra cost on your behalf. All that you earn is for you to keep after tax (if applicable).

7. Holiday pay ☀️

Just like everyone else in the workplace, you will receive holiday pay and bank holidays, it’s all in the contract and every part of having a real job because it is a real job!

8. Different progression opportunities 📈 

There are a variety of different progression routes after you have finished your apprenticeship. Once you've completed one level you can keep going up levels until you've got a degree!

Here's the levels available:

• Level 2 (Intermediate Apprenticeships)
• Level 3 (Advanced Apprenticeships)
• Level 4+ (Higher Apprenticeships) which also include:

Levels 4+6 Degree Apprenticeships

Once you've finished your apprenticeship there's lots of avenues open to you, including:

• Job
• University
• Related vocational qualification

9. You can study at work or college 🏢

All apprenticeships require at least a year of employment, with off-the-job training accounting for at least 20% of the apprentice’s employed time. This requirement applies to apprenticeships at all levels.

For some apprentices this means that they might train one day a week at a college. However, for many employers they believe that it is more worthwhile to keep the apprentice on-site at all times to complete this 20%.

Off-the-job learning focuses on teaching new skills rather than developing existing ones. However anything that is asked of the apprentice outside of the job description can class as part of the 20%.

10. You don't feel as though you're still in education! 📚 

No more sitting behind a text book for hours! With an apprenticeship you will be learning on-the-job, doing different things every day and challenging yourself in new ways.

You can talk to us about becoming an apprentice just by dropping us a line or picking up the phone.

Call 01992 411572 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..