Stuck with what to do next? Apprenticeships could be the perfect solution for you, they give you the opportunity to learn a new skill in something that interests you. The first question you may have is what exactly is an apprenticeship? An apprenticeship is a program that prepares you for a specific trade, undertaking on the job training and studying either from a classroom or reading.
So why should you choose an apprenticeship?
Firstly, apprenticeships are great whether you are finishing school and don’t know what to do next or want to change career path. This is because they give you the option to study and learn something new whilst earning a salary. Typically you spend at least one day a week focussing on studying, and the rest you undertake work related tasks.
There are different level apprenticeships, so you can find the right level to suit you. The different levels are:
- Intermediate Apprenticeships (Level 2)
- Advanced Apprenticeships (Level 3)
- Higher Apprenticeships (Level 4 and above)
- Degree Apprenticeships (Level 6-7)
The benefits of apprenticeships are:
- Helps you gain real world experience
Have you ever been rejected from a job because of your lack of experience? Well this is where apprenticeships can help, they are great way of gaining valuable experience helping you climb the career ladder landing your dream job.
- A high level of support
Apprenticeships offer a higher level of support than regular jobs do, employers are there to guide you through your career journey. As well as having extra support from learning aids.
- Getting paid to learn
You get paid whilst you are learning. This gives you an advantage of learning a new skill whilst being able to pay bills etc.
- Gain industry-recognised qualifications
Whilst undertaking apprenticeships, you gain industry-recognised qualifications. This will help validate your skills, and knowledge which help show your value to your employer and future employers. Once you’ve have gained these qualifications, you can then carry them throughout your career, and help your progression into future jobs.
- Choose from plenty of programs
There are a lot of programs to choose from sports, business, beauty, or tech. This means you can find a program that suits you and your interests, and help you decide what career path you want to take.
- Enjoy student discounts
One of the many perks of becoming a student is the student discount. You’re entitled to an NUS card, which offers deals across restaurants, shops and cinemas.
My Experience as a Digital Marketing Apprentice
I had just finished a degree in photography and I wondered what I was going to do next. After my degree I found it very hard to stand out when finding a job, which is why I began to look for a digital marketing apprenticeship. Being a digital marketing apprentice has helped me develop my skills and share my creative skills with others. It has also allowed me to use my previous qualifications and skills not letting them go to waste. All of this and being able to earn a salary to be able to pay my bills.
I would highly recommend considering an apprenticeship because you have so much opportunity to learn and grow as an individual. I feel very supported by my employer and learning mentors, that I know I can ask for help on anything. An apprenticeship has also helped me see more of a career path for myself and has helped develop my self-confidence.
