5 Things You Should Know About Apprenticeships as a Learner
If you’re thinking about what to do next in your education or career, you might have come across the word “apprenticeships” and wanted to know more. Whether you’re looking for a hands-on approach to learning or want to dive straight into a career while gaining qualifications, apprenticeships could be your ideal path.
Apprenticeships help learners find their feet, build skills, and secure jobs that launch rewarding careers. So, what should you know about apprenticeships before diving in? Here are five key things every learner should understand to get the most out of apprenticeships.
1. Apprenticeships Offer More Than Just Manual Trades
When you hear the word apprenticeship, you might imagine it’s just for roles like carpentry, plumbing, or bricklaying. While apprenticeships in these fields are still important, the reality is apprenticeships are now available in nearly every industry you can think of. Interested in engineering? Health and Safety? Business administration? In fact, the choices are broader than ever, so if you’re dreaming of a career in product welding, business management, or customer service, there’s an apprenticeship that can help you get there.
Key Takeaway: Don’t limit your thinking—there are apprenticeships in almost every industry imaginable. Explore your options! From engineering apprenticeships to business support, apprenticeships are available throughout industries and you will find one to suit your career path.
2. You’ll Earn While You Learn
University degrees often come with heavy student loans, which can feel overwhelming when starting your career. One of the biggest perks of apprenticeships is that you don’t just learn—you get paid to do it! Apprenticeships are real jobs, so you’ll earn a wage while training, gaining experience, and working towards a qualification.
The minimum wage for apprentices in the UK depends on your age and the level of the apprenticeship, but many employers pay more than the base rate. Plus, with no tuition fees, you’ll earn and learn without the financial stress of other forms of education. This makes apprenticeships an excellent option for people who want to be financially independent.
Key Takeaway: With apprenticeships, you can get qualified and earn money simultaneously—no student debt hanging over you as you start your career!
@incomm_training Ever wondered what it’s like to work as a Machinist Apprentice? Discover what Annabelle gets up to day-to-day as a Machinist Apprentice. Kickstart your career with Incomm and attend our open days. #dayinthelife #apprenticeships #Manufacturing #Engineering
3. Apprenticeships Are All About Real-World Experience
One thing that makes apprenticeships stand out is the balance between practical experience and theoretical learning. In other words, you’re not just sitting in a classroom reading textbooks—you’re getting stuck in, learning the skills you need by actually doing the job. You’ll work alongside experienced professionals, learning the ropes in real time while studying for a qualification.
For example, you might spend four days a week at work and one day studying in a classroom or online. This combination means you’re developing real-world experience and picking up knowledge relevant to your job. Employers love this approach because it gives you the skills to hit the ground running after you finish your apprenticeship.
By taking the apprenticeship route, you get the best of both worlds—hands-on experience in a real job and a solid academic foundation.
Key Takeaway: Apprenticeships give you honest, on-the-job experience, meaning you learn practical skills and theory.
4. Apprenticeships Aren’t Just for School Leavers
You might think apprenticeships are only for young people straight out of school, but that’s far from true. Apprenticeships are open to anyone over the age of 16 and can be a great option for people of all ages. Whether you’re leaving school, switching careers, or looking to upskill in your current job, there’s an apprenticeship for you.
If you’re already working and want to gain more qualifications to progress in your career, an apprenticeship could be a great option without needing to take time out to study full-time. Employers often support their staff in taking on apprenticeships to help them develop new skills, too.
Key Takeaway: Apprenticeships aren’t just for school leavers—anyone can take advantage of the opportunity to upskill, retrain, or progress in their career.
5. Apprenticeships Can Lead to Amazing Career Opportunities
One of the best things about apprenticeships is their focus on long-term success. In many cases, apprentices secure full-time positions with the company they trained with. In fact, around 90% of apprentices stay in employment after finishing their apprenticeship, and many progress into leadership roles or higher-level positions within their organisations.
If you prefer to get into work right away and start building your career, an apprenticeship can fast-track you. You’ll create a network, gain qualifications, and prove your abilities—all while getting paid. When you finish your apprenticeship, you’ll have the skills, qualifications, and connections to step straight into a full-time role, often with the same employer.
Key Takeaway: Apprenticeships can lead to long-term career success, with many learners securing full-time positions and progressing quickly within their industries.
Why Choose an Apprenticeship?
An apprenticeship is more than just a job; it’s a career investment. By combining paid work with recognised qualifications, you’ll be ahead of the curve regarding real-world experience and skills. You’ll also benefit from earning while you train without worrying about tuition fees or student loans. Whether you’re just starting out or looking for a career change, apprenticeships offer a pathway to success.
So, what are you waiting for? Start your apprenticeship journey today and take control of your future.
Download our free guide to apprenticeships here:
