Myth-Busting Apprenticeships

Apprenticeships have a lot of misconceptions surrounding them, which could put you off wanting to apply for one. In reality, apprenticeships are extremely valuable and useful qualifications that can lead to career development and a rewarding learning experience. We’ve busted some of the most common myths surrounding apprenticeships.

Apprenticeships don’t pay well 

A very common misconception is that apprentices do not get paid well. As a degree or higher apprentice, you will be earning a salary paid by your employer, at a rate of their discretion that will be on or above the national minimum wage.

You will also have the benefit of not having to pay any tuition fees, meaning you will be debt-free, earning a salary, and working towards a high-level qualification all at once.

Apprenticeships are for people who didn’t do well at school

Whilst apprenticeships offer a more hands-on and practical learning experience, higher and degree apprenticeships include an academic element so that you’re learning on the job. You’ll walk away with a level 4, 5, 6 or 7 qualification, meaning you’ll have the equivalent of a HNC, Foundation, Bachelor’s or Master’s degree once you’ve completed your programme. 

Higher and degree apprenticeships also have entry requirements, including qualifications such as GCSEs and A-levels.

Apprenticeships are for people who want to go into a trade job

We offer a range of different apprenticeships, from Construction Site Manager and Chartered Surveyor, to Nursing Associate and even Aerospace Engineer! So, whilst you are able to go down the vocational route, the world is your oyster when choosing an apprenticeship.

Apprenticeships do not hold as much weight as a degree

Degree and higher apprenticeships are level 4, 5, 6 and 7 qualifications, meaning they are the equivalent of a HNC, Foundation or Bachelor’s/Master’s degrees.

An apprenticeship gives you the chance to gain practical industry skills that set you up for your chosen career path. You will come away as a highly-skilled professional with the world at your feet. 

Apprenticeships don’t lead to full-time work

Many employers greatly value the work experience that an apprenticeship entails, and government surveys suggest over half of apprentices are kept on by their employers once their programme has finished, and over three-quarters of apprentices stay in full-time employment with another company (Department for Business, Innovation and Skills Apprentice Survey 2014).