For some, the decision of what to do after school is an easy one. Some people know exactly what they want to do and the route they need to get there is clear. Some careers only have one route, limiting any decisions that need to be made. However if you don’t know exactly what you want to do, or there are different options to get there then the decision can seem daunting and what might be the best decision for someone else might not be the best for you.
When looking at your future prospects, employers look for different things. Some careers, like being a doctor, require a degree whilst other routes may value on-the-job experience. An Apprenticeship can provide you with a direct career route and is great if you know exactly what you want to do. If you aren’t sure then a degree can provide access to a wide range of industries after qualifying. At university you will also be able to join societies and build new skills; these are valuable to an employer and will help to set you apart from other applicants.
The best thing to do is think about what you might want out of your career and work out if you need a degree or if there are other routes to get there. If a degree is important to you then there are a number of options you can consider other than the straightforward 3 years at university. Many employers are now offering degree Apprenticeships in certain areas or will provide you with a sponsored degree opportunities. Both combine work and study, but without the price tag a degree usually comes with.
University is quite expensive but it can be seen as an investment in your future. Statistics are changing all the time but the latest show that going to University doesn’t guarantee you a higher income than not going. Because you start earning earlier there may be opportunities to progress quicker and be eligible for promotions sooner. Are you ready for a 9-5 or would you prefer the student lifestyle? Late nights and lie-ins might seem like a great idea but in reality a degree requires self-motivation and lots of work. You need to be determined so make sure you study something that will keep you interested. The working world can provide routine yet not every day is the same. You’ll also need to fit studying in if you choose an Apprenticeship and whilst most employers give you time for study you will also need to do some in your own time.
Take time to make your decision, speak to other students, visit universities and speak to training providers, like Kaplan, to find out more about Apprenticeships. Don’t worry, it’s possible to change your mind or move to something else if you think that you’ve made the wrong decision. It’s also important to note that whether you choose to do an Apprenticeship, a sponsored degree or go to university, the end-point is often exactly the same. No route is better than the other and ultimately they are just different ways to get there!
Ten top reasons to become an apprentice
- Earn while you learn – from day one
Apprenticeships are real jobs. That means you get paid while you learn. If you’re aged 16-18 you’ll get the apprentice minimum wage. The same applies if you’re 19 and over and in the first year of your apprenticeship, after that you are entitled to the National Minimum Wage. However many employers pay more than this and some higher apprenticeships can pay as much as £500 per week.
- Learn from the best
With an apprenticeship you’ll be working in the industry right from the start. This means you can learn from the best in the business, gain contacts and develop transferable skills through on- and off- the job training.
- You can even get a degree while earning
First launched last year, degree apprenticeships bring together university study right up to bachelor’s or master’s level with paid work at a top employer. Companies such as BAE Systems and Fujitsu are already on board and degree apprenticeships are currently available in careers ranging from engineering to public relations.
- Choice – there are up to 28,000 vacancies across all sectors
With a huge variety of apprenticeships offered by businesses of all sizes, including household names such as Airbus, BBC, Google, IBM, JCB, Lloyds and Sellafield – you can find the apprenticeship that’s right for you. www.getingofar.gov.uk
- It doesn’t matter who you are or what your background is, an apprenticeship can kick start your career
The Government is committed to ensuring that everyone is able to benefit from the life changing opportunities of an apprenticeship. Apprenticeships are opening the door to professions that used to only be an option for people with a traditional degree.
- Employment opportunities
The latest Apprenticeship Evaluation Learner Survey found that 9 out of 10 of all recent completers were either in full or part-time employment. Choosing an apprenticeship is your first step into a successful career.
- Get the skills employers are looking for
Apprentices allow businesses to grow their own talent. High quality employers are now designing apprenticeships to meet their skills needs, so you can trust that you’ll end up with the skills and experience employers want and that will enable you to progress in your career.
- Real satisfaction
We think apprenticeships are great, but if you want proof just ask people who have completed their training. Recent figures have shown that 89% of apprentices are satisfied with their apprenticeship.
- Building your future
Apprenticeships give you the skills you need to progress your career, to Get In and Go Far. Recent research showed that nearly a third of former apprentices had received a promotion since completing their apprenticeship while almost half reported a pay rise.
- As an apprentice you can get the same discounts as University students
While it may not be something to base your career on, all you bargain hunters, apprentices are now entitled to many of the same discounts as university students, with an apprentice extra card. It gives many discounts in-store and online, helping your hard earned money to go further.
Skills Minister Robert Halfon said: “Ten good reasons why more people from all backgrounds should take the chance to reap the benefits of apprenticeships and fulfil their potential. Don’t delay: find out how an apprenticeship could work for you.”
The Government is committed to celebrating the incredible things you can achieve with an apprenticeship through the new Get In Go Far campaign. The campaign stars real-life apprentices who have been hand-picked to tell their story. New adverts for the campaign are set to hit your screens in August to help young people, parents and teachers recognise apprenticeships as a valid and credible route to a rewarding career during this particularly important exam period. Find out more by visiting www.getingofar.gov.uk.
