As your child approaches the end of their secondary education, the prospect of applying for apprenticeships can be both exciting and daunting. Apprenticeships offer a fantastic opportunity for young people to gain hands-on experience in their chosen field while continuing their education whilst earning.
National Apprenticeship Week commences 10-16 February 2025 and is a chance to learn more about apprenticeships and figure out if they could be the right next step for your child. Here are our top tips on how you can support your child through this important process.
What is an Apprenticeship?
An apprenticeship is a structured program that combines on-the-job training with classroom instruction, allowing individuals to gain practical experience and theoretical knowledge in a specific trade or profession. Apprentices work under the supervision of experienced professionals, earning a wage while they learn and develop the skills needed to become proficient in their chosen field. Apprenticeship vacancies exist in a wide range of trades and professions.
Apprenticeships are available at various levels, catering to different educational backgrounds:
- Intermediate Apprenticeships (Level 2): Equivalent to GCSEs, these are suitable for students who have completed Year 11.
- Advanced Apprenticeships (Level 3): Equivalent to A Levels, these are ideal for students who have completed Year 11 or 13.
- Higher Apprenticeships (Levels 4 and 5): Equivalent to a foundation degree or higher education diploma.
- Degree Apprenticeships (Levels 6 and 7): Equivalent to a bachelor’s or master’s degree
Understand the Benefits of Apprenticeships
Before diving into the application process, it’s essential to understand the benefits that apprenticeships offer as well as the disadvantages to ensure that this is the best option for your child. They provide a unique combination of practical work experience and academic learning, often leading to nationally recognized qualifications. Apprenticeships can also enhance employability, as many employers value the real-world skills and experience that apprentices gain.
Advantages:
- Earn While You Learn: Apprentices receive a salary while gaining qualifications.
- Hands-On Experience: Apprenticeships provide practical, on-the-job training.
- No Student Debt: Apprenticeships are funded by the government and employers, so there are no tuition fees
- Employment Opportunities: Many apprentices are offered permanent positions by their employers upon completion.
Disadvantages:
- Commitment: Apprenticeships require a significant time commitment, often lasting 1-5 years.
- Limited Flexibility: Apprenticeships are typically focused on specific career paths, which may limit future career changes
- Average Earnings and Range of Apprenticeship Jobs: At present, the national average apprenticeship salary in the first year is £6.40 per hour, with many employers paying more. As apprentices gain experience and qualifications, their earnings increase.
Help Your Child by Researching Options Together
Spend time researching different apprenticeship opportunities with your child. Look into various industries, companies, and the specific roles available. Websites like www.gov.uk/become-apprentice, www.amazingapprenticeships.com and www.ucas.com/apprenticeships offer comprehensive databases of apprenticeship vacancies. Encourage your child to consider their interests and career aspirations when exploring options.
Support Your Child with Applications
The application process for apprenticeships can be competitive, so it’s crucial to help your child put their best foot forward. Assist them in crafting a strong CV and cover letter that highlight their skills, experiences, and enthusiasm for the role. Practice interview techniques together and remind them to tailor each application to the specific apprenticeship they are applying for. For excellent information and advice about creating a CV and cover letter, see uk.indeed.com/career-advice/cvs-cover-letters/school-leaver-cv and www.prospects.ac.uk/careers-advice/cvs-and-cover-letters/cover-letters/apprenticeship-cover-letter.
Encourage Networking
Networking can play a significant role in securing an apprenticeship. Encourage your child to attend career fairs, industry events, and open days eg Cambridge Regional College www.camre.ac.uk/apprenticeship-jobs-and-careers-fairs and Anglia Ruskin University www.aru.ac.uk/study/degree-apprenticeships/apprentice/open-day-sign-up
These events provide valuable opportunities to meet potential employers and learn more about different apprenticeship programs. Additionally, connecting with professionals on platforms like LinkedIn can help your child build a network of contacts in their desired field.
Stay Positive and Supportive
The journey to securing an apprenticeship can be challenging, and your child may face rejections along the way. It’s important to stay positive and supportive, reminding them that each application and interview is a learning experience. Celebrate their efforts and achievements, no matter how small, and encourage them to keep persevering.
Utilise Available Resources
There are numerous resources available to help your child navigate the apprenticeship application process. Useful websites:
Form the Future: formthefuture.org.uk/candidates-faqs/
Skills for Careers: www.skillsforcareers.education.gov.uk/pages/training-choice/apprenticeships
National Careers Service: nationalcareers.service.gov.uk/careers-advice/helping-young-people-make-education-and-career-choices
Find an Apprenticeship: www.gov.uk/apply-apprenticeship
UCAS: www.ucas.com/apprenticeships
Speak to your school careers lead or careers adviser for additional support and information.
Consider Alternatives
While apprenticeships are a fantastic option, it’s also worth exploring other pathways such as further education, vocational courses, or even gap years. Discuss these alternatives with your child to ensure they are making an informed decision that aligns with their goals and aspirations.
Supporting your child through the apprenticeship application process can make a significant difference in their confidence and success. By staying informed, involved, and encouraging, you can help them take this important step towards their future career.
Looking for more advice, resources, and insights tailored for parents? Explore our growing collection of articles designed to help you support your child’s future. From careers guidance to educational opportunities, our ever-expanding library is here to inspire and inform. Click here to discover more!
