Apprenticeship Advice
An apprenticeship is a real job where you learn, gain experience and get paid. You’re an employee with a contract of employment and holiday leave. By the end of an apprenticeship, you’ll have the right skills and knowledge needed for your chosen career.
Each apprenticeship has a level and an equivalent education level. You can start an apprenticeship at any level.
Resilience is the key attribute to adopt when starting to look into apprenticeships. They can be highly competitive and difficult to get into and, even when successful, may necessitate a lifestyle change when you start.
However, never lose sight of why you’re doing it. Apprenticeships are not only a great way to learn a trade in a hands-on environment, they’re also a terrific way to get your foot in the door of an employer in your chosen industry.
Even if after your apprenticeship it’s not possible for you to be retained by your company, you’ll emerge with a professional qualification, as well as the vital experience sought by many top employers.
Top Tips - for when you have started your journey:
Show a positive attitude
Show your employer that you are enthusiastic about your new Apprenticeship role and be positive about tackling any tasks and challenges that are set for you. A positive, can-do attitude won’t go unnoticed or unappreciated by your colleagues and employer. It can help people see you in a positive light and could lead to more opportunities within your workplace.
Most importantly have fun!
Don’t be afraid to ask questions.
Ask questions and ask more questions throughout your apprenticeship, know and understand what is expected of you during your learning period and at the endpoint assessment, it’s your apprenticeship, after all, no one else’s. There is no such thing as a stupid questions.
Invest time in yourself.
See the 20% off the job time as an investment in YOU, not as a chore or a box that must be ticked, YOU are definitely worth that investment in time and an apprenticeship will significantly benefit your long-term career aspirations.
It’s never too early to think of your next steps
Although you’ve only just started your Apprenticeship, it’s never too early to think about your next steps. Is there an opportunity for progressing onto a higher level Apprenticeship, gain a promotion or a permanent job with your employer once you’ve completed your Apprenticeship? Being committed to your role, showing enthusiasm and a willingness to learn will all stand you in good stead if you want to progress with your current employer.
Related Articles:
Top Tips for an Apprenticeship By
How To Become A Successful Apprentice By Aimee Rishover
The Apprenticeship Network By Jomi Ogunremi
Apprenticeship’s are for everyone! By Alice Everett
