What is a Modern Apprenticeship, and why should you consider it?

AS a young person, one of the most daunting questions to answer can be "What do I want to do with my life?”

Choosing a career path is by no means easy, and we are here to reassure you that you are not alone if you are overwhelmed by choice. In fact, many adults question their choices daily, and countless people change their careers more than once.

While you might be uncertain about what industry to work in or what job title you would like, we can assume that employment stability and job satisfaction are high on your list of priorities. If this is the case, then a Modern Apprenticeship may be just what you are searching for.

In 2019, Skill Development Scotland asked 5,800 people who completed their Modern Apprenticeships questions about job satisfaction, retention, and overall happiness. It is reported that 79% of people were extremely satisfied with their employment due to undertaking a Modern Apprenticeship in the industry, 92% of people were still working in the same industry, and 96% of people would recommend a Modern Apprenticeship to others. 

So, what exactly is a Modern Apprenticeship, and why should you consider it?

A Modern Apprenticeship is like a real job, but it also includes an element of studying. As a result, you can earn money and qualifications from day one while also gaining valuable work experience under the supervision of industry professionals. 

There are more than 80 Modern Apprenticeship frameworks available, covering industries such as engineering, transportation, financial services, hospitality, healthcare, and more. Doing your research is essential because there might be Modern Apprenticeship opportunities that you aren't aware of.

At Street League, we offer Modern Apprenticeships in four different industries: Business Administration, Hospitality, Warehouse Storage and Distribution, and Leisure. The apprenticeship programmes we are involved in last between 9 – 12 months and use continual assessments to monitor your progress.

Continual assessments…that sounds a bit too much like school.

We fully appreciate that the term continual assessment does give off a school vibe. However, the Modern Apprenticeships we offer are different.

Let us explain.

During the duration of your Modern Apprenticeship, you will work with an assessor who will keep track of your progress, conduct performance evaluations, and meet with you frequently to discuss how you are getting on. You are not required to submit any final exams, and it is ok if you do not pass a section the first time. Your assessor is there to support you and offer plans to help you improve.

What are the benefits of a Modern Apprenticeship?

As we've already explained, a modern apprenticeship is like regular employment in that it pays you and gives you access to additional benefits like paid holidays and sick days. You might not know, though, that the government funds modern apprenticeships. In the end, this means that earning your qualifications is free. Furthermore, because you are being paid, you are not required to take out a student loan and can minimise any debt related to your education. 

Modern Apprenticeship programmes are very well regarded among employers because it allows them to up-skill in the areas that matter most to them. Modern Apprentices have access to customised on-the-job training, meaning they can immediately put their newly learned skills to use, making it a win-win situation for everyone. 

The Modern Apprenticeships that we offer focus on improving five core areas that will help you stand out to employers, and these are: working with others, ICT, numeracy, problem-solving, and communication.

Do Modern Apprenticeships allow you to progress as far in your career?

If you search on Google, how do I progress in my career, the results are inundated with tips and advice. While there are countless blog posts and articles on this topic, the themes are the same.

Career progression comes from setting goals and following through with them, finding mentors and opportunities to network, up-skilling effectively, being involved in your industry and being proactive and visible within your organisation. Undertaking a Modern Apprenticeship can be advantageous for helping you with all these things.

The only limit to your career progression will be your ambition.

Should I go to university or do a Modern Apprenticeship? 

There is no right or wrong answer to this question, as it depends entirely on your interests and goals. Instead, we would encourage you to think about how you prefer to learn and what type of environment will be best for you to develop.

Just remember, university is not for everyone, and a degree does not define your future.

 If a Modern Apprenticeship sounds like something you could be interested in, we can help.

Get in touch today.