Why do an apprenticeship?

If you are about to leave school and not sure about your next step, an apprenticeship is one of the choices you will have. There are a number of good reasons for undertaking an apprenticeship, which we will highlight below.

Start your career straight from school

One of the things apprentices say they like most if wasting no time in getting their career up and running as soon as they leave school. Whilst some school leavers choose college or university, apprentices feel rewarded by getting a head-start in an industry they have an interest in. You can apply for an apprenticeship while you are still at school, but just need to be over the age of 16 when you start.

Earn while you learn

This is possibly the best bit. Even though you are spending 20% of your time on an apprenticeship studying, you are being paid a reasonable wage. Apprentices have to be paid the National Minimum Wage if you are aged 16-23, and the National Living Wage if you are over 23. You get rights to paid holiday, sick leave and other benefits, and some apprentices can command salaries of up to £20,000. Your wage will depend on your level of apprenticeship, the location and the industry you are working in.

Get practical training in a job

From day 1, you will be getting hands-on experience in your chosen job, and being trained in how to do it at the same time. One of the best ways to learn is by applying what you are being taught immediately in the real world, and that is what you are doing in an apprenticeship. Apprentices enjoy using what they learn in the workplace, and making a difference for their employers. It gives apprentices a real sense of pride and achievement.

Find out more about the benefits of a construction apprenticeship.

Study without getting into debt

Choosing whether to go to university or start an apprenticeship is often a key dilemma for young people, especially if they are about to take their A-Levels. There are merits to both, and each route is held in high regard by employers. Perhaps the biggest difference between university and an apprenticeship is the fact that students have to pay tuition fees of up to £9,250 per year, which for a three-year degree course will lead to debts of nearly £30,000 by the time of graduation.

As mentioned, apprenticeships are a paid position with no fees. Some apprenticeships will include more time at a training provider, college or university, but you still won’t have to pay any fees to benefit from this.

Learn key skills for your career

You may start your apprenticeship at what is called ‘entry level’, but by the end you will have learnt a wide range of skills and have a nationally-recognised qualification. Compared to people who have gone to university and focused on academic study (but still might not know what job they want to do), you will have practical experience of a job over several years, ready to take that next step in your chosen career, apply for jobs or become qualified in your trade. You will also learn important life skills, such as time-keeping and decision-making.

An apprenticeship gives you the tools to build your career and your life.

Find out more about apprenticeships

If you think an apprenticeship is right for you, learn about the different levels, entry requirements, what apprenticeship roles are available in construction and how to apply.