The idea of going to university never appealed to me. I’ve always been academic, but for some reason the concept of university was never something I wanted to pursue. My secondary school didn’t promote any other options (post sixth form) besides Uni: this meant I had to do some research for myself and work out what my best option was. This is where I discovered the concept of an Apprenticeship.

Here are just a handful of the reasons that I’m choosing to be an apprentice:

• Did you know that 90% of apprentices progress into full time employment after completing their apprenticeship scheme? This is even higher when looking at Advanced or higher apprenticeships. Comparing this to university students, only 69% of UK university graduates are employed within the UK or abroad. Statistics such as this prove how effective apprenticeships are; you are given the opportunity to progress, no matter which type of apprenticeship you are in.
• Nowadays most sixth form students go on to University, completing a degree that they may will most probably never even use in their working life. Personally, I would prefer not using my valuable time studying a subject that may not be relevant to my career at all. Apprenticeships are much more specific than a course at Uni.
• An apprenticeship is much better suited to me as an individual. I love the idea of gaining further qualifications and more hands-on experience within the workplace at the same time. I enjoy learning more in a practical environment and believe that gaining experience as apposed to theoretical knowledge is much more valuable.
• And of course, another benefit to becoming an apprentice is being able to earn money whilst you’re still in education.The average debt that a university graduate is left with in the UK is £44,000. If you were to ask anyone whether they would rather be earning money or getting themselves in thousands of pounds worth of debt, I’m certain I know what their answer would be…

After exploring my options I’m particularly keen to find out more about Digital Marketing and Project Management apprenticeships. Anything that involves showcasing my creativity and planning skills is what I wish to pursue. When deciding on an apprenticeship I feel that it’s important for you to consider your strongest qualities, as well as those qualities that you wish to improve. Remember that an apprenticeship is your opportunity to better yourself; the whole purpose is to improve the qualities that are required for the specific role you’ve applied for – don’t think you have to be perfect in order to apply!

Want to employ an apprentice or become an apprentice? Get in contact with us!

By Lauren Wells