Apprenticeships are often talked about as an ‘earn while you learn’ route into a career. And while that’s true, there’s still more to the story.

For many learners, the reality is more demanding than expected. But it’s also far more rewarding. We caught up with a few of our own learners, who are progressing their careers through apprenticeships at Kaplan, to hear about their experiences.

Skills, support and progression at work

One common expectation is that apprenticeships are an easier option than other routes. In reality, they require commitment, time management, and resilience – particularly when balancing work responsibilities with study.

Maria Black, winner of the Apprenticeship Advocate award at the 2025 Kaplan Apprenticeship Awards, reflected that apprenticeships ‘will take time but will be worth it.’ Like many learners, she found that progress didn’t always feel immediate. There were moments when things felt challenging, but sticking with it made a real difference.

Resilience wasn’t just something Maria developed along the way – it became one of the most valuable outcomes of her experience.

That sense of progression doesn’t come from study alone. Apprentices are building skills directly in the workplace, applying what they learn in real time, and growing in confidence as they do.

Challenge, resilience, and perseverance

It’s normal to find parts of an apprenticeship difficult. New concepts, deadlines, and workplace expectations can feel overwhelming at times.

Data and technology apprentice at National Highways, Tom Bourne, described his course as frustrating at points, but also says it ‘definitely pushed’ him. That challenge played a key role in building resilience - learning how to problem-solve, ask questions, and keep going even when things didn’t click straight away.

Rather than being a setback, those moments of difficulty helped prepare Tom for the realities of work. Apprenticeships don’t remove challenges – they teach you how to work through them.

Real workplace skills in action

Another common misconception is that apprenticeship learning is too theoretical. In practice, it’s the opposite.

Tom uses Microsoft Excel regularly in his role, applying the skills he’s built directly to his day-to-day work. Data skills aren’t learned in isolation – they’re used to support real decisions, solve problems, and add value to the organisation.

As workplaces continue to evolve, apprentices are also gaining exposure to how data, AI, and automation are shaping modern roles. Understanding these tools in a real-world context helps learners stay relevant and confident in a changing job market.

Support from Kaplan and employers

Balancing work and study can feel daunting, especially at the start. But apprentices aren’t expected to do it alone.

Another one of our Data and Technology apprentices, Euan Stewart, found his apprenticeship journey at BMW Group more ‘seamless’ than expected. He highlighted how tutors and personal support were always available when he needed them. He also noted that his questions were always answered quickly, providing a strong sense of continuous support.

That combination of employer backing and Kaplan support plays a crucial role in helping apprentices stay on track, particularly during more challenging periods.

Work-based learning and variety

For many learners, apprenticeships also challenge assumptions about what learning looks like.

Euan appreciated having a different way of learning – gaining knowledge while building experience on the job. In his business analyst role, the variety of projects and opportunities for progression keeps things interesting. As he put it, “you never get bored too quickly.”

That mix of learning, responsibility, and real contribution is what sets apprenticeships apart.

The reality of apprenticeships

Apprenticeships aren’t always easy. They take time, effort, and perseverance. There will be moments of challenge and frustration – but there’s also support, progression, and the chance to build skills that genuinely matter.

And for many apprentices, that reality turns out to be worth it – both now and for the careers they’re building for the future.

Next steps

If an apprenticeship feels right for you, the best next step is to see what roles are available today. Visit our apprenticeship vacancies page to find opportunities across the industries we train in and apply when you’re ready.

If you’re already working, an apprenticeship could still be an option. Many learners develop new skills by training with the support of their current employer. If you’d like guidance on how to raise the topic, read our article on how to talk to your employer about doing an apprenticeship.