Top Five Common Myths About Apprenticeships

Myth 1. Apprenticeships are for people who don’t do well at school

Apprenticeships are simply another route into learning and employment available for all levels. You may simply want to get earning and get out in the workplace rather than going onto college. You might like working on-the-job and not being stuck in a classroom all day. You can earn and learn at the same time, meet a variety of experienced people and even progress up to university level apprenticeships.

Myth 2. Apprentices are poorly paid

Some people think that apprentices simply get the minimum wage and make cups of tea. This misconception simply isn’t true. Employers are looking for the best talent to join their business and often pay more than you’d expect.

Whilst you are earning and learning, think about your friends that may simply be studying. Your earning extra money that you can save or spend. You are also more likely to receive higher wages once you’ve qualified, and in return, you won’t have large amounts of debt in tuition fees.

Myth 3. Apprentices get stuck in the same sector for years

One of the many great things about apprenticeships is the progression opportunity. The ability to move up between the levels. Moving from a level 2 qualification to a level 3 in a subject area that complements your skills.

For example, you may be a customer service apprentice, but you could transfer your skills to a marketing or management apprenticeship. With apprenticeships, you never stop learning and can move your valuable skills onto more advanced qualifications which can open up new job roles in different sectors.

Myth 4. Apprenticeships are only for school leavers

Apprenticeships are available to anyone. Around 41% of current apprentices are aged over 25 years old. You don’t have to be 16 to do an apprenticeship.  You could have gone to college and be 18 or 19 and looking for a job.

An apprenticeship is a great way to be placed within a business and enhance your learning.

Myth 5. An apprenticeship won’t lead to a full-time job

In fact, more than 90% of apprentices stay in employment after their course ends, with 67% remaining with the same employer. Employers have invested in your skills for a minimum of two years. You know the business and the people. It makes business sense to look after people and enhance skills.

Despite these myths, the apprentice levy and new apprenticeship standards are helping to create more roles in a variety of industries every year. Why not have a search at some of our latest vacancies.