Benefits of Apprenticeships as an Adult

Many people may consider apprenticeships to be for school leavers, as many are marketed towards 16-year-olds. However, there are numerous benefits to completing apprenticeships as an adult, from learning new skills to changing your career. If you are considering undertaking one or want to move in a new direction career-wise but are unsure how, here are just a couple of the benefits of apprenticeships as an adult.

What are apprenticeships?

Apprenticeships are a form of further education that combines practical training with study, allowing you to get paid whilst you work and learn. They are incredibly popular with young people who have left school but don’t wish to go to university. However, there is no age limit to who can be an apprentice. With apprenticeships available in over 170 different industries, you may find that being an apprentice is the perfect way to enter your ideal industry, working, learning ,and earning money all at the same time.

To study an apprenticeship, you have to be over 16, living in England, and not in full-time education. Even though many people on apprenticeship schemes are school-leaving age, apprenticeships for those over 40 are growing increasingly popular.

What do apprenticeships involve?

Apprenticeships will vary depending on a number of factors, and your employer will determine the structure of your apprenticeship. In general, they will include:

• Detailed training plan
• Practical, on the job training
• Support
• Mentoring
• Assessments
• Theoretical study

Popular industries in which apprenticeships exist include banking, health and social care, business administration, and construction, but there are plenty of different options to choose from in a wide range of industries. Apprenticeships can take 1 to 5 years to complete, and you will work over 30 hours per week, but no more than 40 hours. You will be paid minimum wage for your age group during your apprenticeship.

What can you do with them?

Many people consider apprenticeships a great way to gain practical experience in the workplace and see them as a great way to get their foot in the door in their desired industry. You will also have great networking opportunities and the chance to work with industry professionals who you may encounter later in your career journey. As an adult apprentice, you can use existing skills, knowledge, and qualifications whilst learning all about a new industry. You can gain new skills at any time during your life, helping you develop as a person or change your job.

Is an apprenticeship right for you?

Apprenticeships are ideal for those who want to change their career but do not want to undertake a full-time degree. This may be due to a number of reasons, such as not having the time or funds to study or enjoying working in a more practical environment. Some jobs and roles are best learned on the job rather than in lectures or from books, and apprenticeships can give you this hands-on experience whilst also allowing you to earn some money.