Apprenticeships are a great way for you to enter many different industries, but are they right for you? Here we list six advantages and five disadvantages of doing an apprenticeship
Learn while you earn
You’ll have the opportunity to earn a salary and enjoy on the job training within your local area. In fact, you will gain a nationally recognized qualification that allows you to succeed in your career. On average, an intermediate or advanced apprentice will earn £4.30 an hour (median wage). But you might be surprised to learn that there is a minimum amount your employer has to pay you by law if you are an apprentice.
Guidance
Throughout the apprenticeship program, you will benefit from the encouragement and support of your colleagues and employer. You will also have access to comprehensive training, support and a course mentor to offer additional help and resources required to improve your skills and complete the study successfully.
Professional support
As well as gaining a nationally recognized and professional qualification, an apprenticeship allows you to build links to local businesses, and to develop the necessary skills and experience needed to drive your career successfully into the future. There are plenty of opportunities to progress onto the next level of apprenticeship and continue to grow. Moreover, if you fancy being your own boss, the knowledge and skills gained from the apprenticeship programme could help you set up your own business in the future.
Cost
There are no tuition fees or costs to you as a learner when doing an apprenticeship programme. Apprenticeships are funded by the employer and government. You will be paid a salary for the duration of your apprenticeship. Don’t be misinformed about apprenticeships, they are not just for younger people. Anyone not already in full time education can enrol and apprenticeships are a great door opener for those who want a career change.
Become an asset
Apart from being cost effective to the employer, it will offer you the opportunity to develop and become an essential part of the team. This means that you will get trained and supported, until you become a skilled and reliable part of the workforce, increasing your chances of staying on with your employer once your apprenticeship is completed.
Networking
One of the most essential skills in any workplace is networking and connecting with people. With an apprenticeship you’ll be meeting key people in the industry who could impact amazing things for your future job. An apprenticeship will also offer you an opportunity to meet friends for life: it is not just higher learning institutions like colleges and universities where strong bonds are formed.
