What is an Apprenticeship? [A Bitesize Guide]

If you find yourself asking the question "What is an apprenticeship?" then you may have found out that too often, apprenticeships are overlooked in favour of university or going straight to work.

Increasingly, however, apprenticeships are being advertised as a viable career option for young people. From stability and skills to earning as you learn, apprenticeships allow individuals to gain both education and work experience simultaneously.

Brilliant, right?

This article will explore what an apprenticeship is in the UK, how it works, and how it can benefit young people.

What is an Apprenticeship in the UK?

An apprenticeship in the UK is a form of vocational training combining on-the-job and classroom learning. Apprenticeships are available across a range of industries, from construction and engineering to health and social care as well as providing the possibility of working in the maritime industry.

There are three levels of apprenticeships available in the UK:

Intermediate apprenticeships are the equivalent to give GCSE passes and typically last between one and two years

Advanced apprenticeships are the equivalent to two A-Level passes and typically last between two and three years

Higher and degree apprenticeships are the equivalent to a foundation degree of above and typically last between three and six years

Each apprenticeship level provides a different level of qualification and opportunity for career progression. Apprenticeships are a popular choice for young people who want to gain practical skills and experience in their chosen industry while working towards a recognised qualification.

Apprenticeships can lead to long term career opportunities and higher salaries than those who enter the workforce without any training or qualifications.

How Apprenticeships Work...

To start an apprenticeship in the UK, you must be at least 16 years old and not in full-time education. Apprenticeships are available to individuals of all ages, including recent school leavers, those who have already started their careers but want to gain more qualifications, and even those who are out of work.

To begin an apprenticeship, you will need to find a suitable employer or apprenticeship scheme. Many companies offer apprenticeship schemes, so it's worth researching the opportunities available in your chosen industry.

To begin an apprenticeship, you will need to find an employer willing to take you on. Many companies offer apprenticeship schemes, so it's worth researching the opportunities available in your chosen industry.

We’ve put together a number of key steps to follow which will put you on the right part to securing an apprenticeship:

Decide which industry or career you're interested in

Choose an industry or career you're passionate about. Here are a number of common examples will skillsets that can be transferred to the maritime industry: Business and Administration, Catering and Hospitality, Construction and Engineering, Hair and Beauty

Look for apprenticeships in your local area

You can search for apprenticeships via a number of government sources depending on your location.

• England - gov.uk
• Scotland - apprenticeships.scot
• Wales - gov.wales
• Northern Ireland - nidirect.gov.uk

Learn about the employer

Speak to former apprentices, research into the company and their apprenticeships, read or watch any behind the scenes content including vlogs or blogs, as well as asking about progression opportunities.

Sign up for Career Finder

Career Finder is a job database run by UCAS listing thousands of apprenticeships, graduate jobs and internships in the UK.

Prepare documentation and apply

Create a CV and personal statement tailored towards the apprenticeship of your choice and submit your application.

Once you have secured an apprenticeship, you will begin a programme of on-the-job training and classroom learning.

The amount of time spent in each environment will depend on the level of apprenticeship and the employer's requirements. Generally, apprentices will spend around 80% of their time in the workplace and 20% in a classroom or training environment.

In addition to gaining valuable work experience and qualifications, apprentices can also benefit from a range of other perks, including: earning a wage whilst they learn, access to employee benefits such as sick pay and holiday entitlement, opportunities for career progression within the company and a recognised qualification at the end of the programme

Traineeships are also available to help young people gain the skills and experience they need to secure an apprenticeship. Traineeships provide work experience, training, and support with job applications, interview skills, and CV writing.

How You Can Benefit from an Apprenticeship...

Apprenticeships offer a range of benefits that can help young people gain a foothold in their chosen industry and progress in their careers.

Some of the key benefits of an apprenticeship include:

Earn while you learn

Apprentices earn a wage while they learn, so they can support themselves financially and gain valuable work experience at the same time.

Gaining practical skills and experience

Apprenticeships provide on-the-job training, which means that individuals gain practical skills and experience that they can use in their future careers.

Gaining a recognised qualification

Apprenticeships lead to a nationally recognised qualification that employers across the UK value.

Opportunities for career progression

Many companies offer opportunities for career progression within the organisation, which means that apprentices can progress to more senior roles over time.

Learning from experienced professionals

Apprentices learn from experienced professionals within their chosen industry, which means they gain valuable insights and knowledge to apply in their future careers.

Is an Apprenticeship Right for You?

Apprenticeships offer an excellent opportunity for young people to gain practical work experience, a nationally recognised qualification, and a wage all at the same time.

If you're interested in starting an apprenticeship, researching the opportunities available in your chosen industry and speaking to potential employers is worthwhile.

Viking Crew, an international maritime recruitment agency, offers a range of apprenticeship opportunities for those looking to start their career in the maritime industry.

Don't miss out on this fantastic opportunity to gain practical work experience, education, and a wage at the same time.

Contact us today to learn more about the apprenticeships available and how they can help you achieve your career goals in the maritime industry.