For many, the word 'apprenticeship' conjures up images of young school leavers taking their first steps into the working world. But apprenticeships aren’t just for the young - they’re for anyone looking to open new doors and steer their career in a fresh direction.
Apprenticeships are for everyone, regardless of age or stage in your career. The modern landscape of apprenticeships embraces diversity, inclusivity, and lifelong learning.
Busting the myths
“I’ll have to sacrifice my salary.”
One of the biggest draws of an apprenticeship is the chance to earn a salary while learning. Many believe that apprenticeships come with a financial trade-off, but this isn’t always the case. Mature learners, especially those with bills to pay or dependants to support, can be surprised to find that apprenticeship wages aren’t necessarily tied to the minimum wage.
Employers set the salaries for apprentices. While we can’t promise exact figures, we can say that your earnings may be more than expected. So, if you’re considering progressing your career but worried about the financial side, rest assured that you don’t always have to sacrifice your income to gain valuable skills for life.
“I have no experience in this industry.”
If you’re a mature learner, the chances are that you’ve already amassed a wealth of experience. The beauty of apprenticeships is that they allow you to build on that foundation, making your career transition smoother and more rewarding. You’re not starting from scratch, you’re just adding new layers to your expertise.
Apprenticeships offer a robust platform to set yourself up for success, however, a big career decision can be daunting. At Kaplan, you will find our expert tutors and dedicated Talent Coaches who will guide you every step of the way to ensure you stay on track and feel confident throughout your apprenticeship.
“I can’t attend a classroom course.”
Depending on your apprenticeship programme, our flexible study methods will cater to different learning styles. From Live Online classes led by subject specialists to independent online learning, education has evolved to meet the needs of modern learners.
Whether you prefer guided learning or independent study, explore the options that are available to you as they are perfect for mature learners juggling other commitments. Apprenticeships, today, are designed to fit seamlessly into busy lives, offering a mix of online teaching, practical experience and dedicated training hours.
Final thoughts
If you’re looking to boost your career and acquire skills for life, it’s time to rethink apprenticeships. They’re not just for school leavers, they’re for anyone ready to embark on a new adventure. You just need an open mind and be prepared and determined to commit to your own success.
Ready to boost your career?
Apprenticeships are a great way to gain practical and transferable skills while developing the knowledge to put them to use. If you’re already employed, find out more about how to discuss starting an apprenticeship with your employer.
Our data and technology apprenticeship programmes can give you a cutting edge in the fast-paced world of tech. Plus, you’ll gain access to a Generative AI course to supercharge your skills and keep you ahead of the curve.
Employers can also learn more about our apprenticeship offerings and connect with our team for further details.