Researching Apprenticeships
Determine the appropriate industry and level of apprenticeship available. Your child must decide on the level based on two factors: having the required qualifications for acceptance and specifying the duration of their commitment to the apprenticeship. Remember, apprenticeships are progression opportunities. Starting at Level 2 or 3 doesn’t mean your child won’t eventually achieve a higher-level apprenticeship.
Degree apprenticeships are an appealing alternative to full-time university study, offering the chance to obtain a BA or BSc while committing to 3 or 4 years of study, coupled with real-world job experience. However, these are far more competitive, so don’t close the door on searching for Level 3 or higher-level apprenticeships.
Next, they should determine their areas of interest and explore available apprenticeships within their chosen sector. Conducting research and seeking guidance from career advisors or online sources can help identify areas of interest. If a particular sector fails to captivate their interest during research, it may indicate that it is not a suitable fit. Engaging in work experience is an excellent way to evaluate whether the practical experience aligns with the theoretical allure of a dream job.
Finally, it’s crucial to ensure the apprenticeship aligns with their desired career. While they don’t need to be overly specific about their ultimate job or role, establishing a correlation between the apprenticeship, areas of study, acquired experience, and their envisioned future (say, five years ahead) is paramount.
