In praise of apprenticeships

An idea commonly floated is that young people leave school poorly equipped for the world of work.  I’m not sure I agree with the implied notion that schools are at fault. With an already packed curriculum, should we be expecting our schools to give a solid grounding in all the diverse sectors and opportunities that exist? That seems unreasonable to me.

If school leavers have the basics of literacy, numeracy, a positive attitude and a willingness to learn, they have the foundations in place on which to build their future. If they also have a good sense of their interests, a little advice will help them discover which careers might suit them best.

An opportunity to grow

I’m writing this during National Apprenticeship Week, which is now in its seventeenth year. While I admire the intentions of the week, I’ll admit to being somewhat disappointed that this promotional event is still a necessity. We should already be well aware of the many benefits apprenticeships bring. Without the prompt of a campaign, they should be recognised as a valuable and enjoyable stage of our life journey. The truth is that apprenticeships have a positive impact. Not just on the individual apprentice, but on society, business and the economy.

Over recent decades there has been a huge focus on encouraging young people to gain university degrees – as if such qualifications were the only route to a successful career. But like those school leavers said to be poorly equipped for the world of work, recent graduates often find themselves struggling to get a foot on the career ladder. In addition, they may be burdened by significant debt.

Contrast their position to that of the newly qualified apprentice who has gained skills that will serve them throughout their lifetime, has a nationally recognised qualification and has been paid throughout.

That comparison is somewhat simplistic – circumstances vary, every individual is different and what’s right for one person may not suit another. Nevertheless, I have to question why apprenticeships aren’t more popular in Britain. Other countries in Europe, Germany for one, take a far more positive view of undertaking an apprenticeship. It’s seen as a real role, where you gain hands-on experience and are supported to gain skills and qualifications. You earn as you’re learning. What’s more, enlightened providers will give you opportunities to get involved in projects, research and collaborative ventures. It isn’t a restrictive training placement. It’s an opportunity to grow.

Learning without limits

Often people don’t realise the variety of apprenticeships available. Possibly this is a hangover from the days when only a few industries retained the practice – engineering, bricklaying and other building trades spring to mind. But now you can undertake or, as an employer, offer apprenticeships in a vast array of disciplines, from finance and IT to social care and project management. Apprenticeships also have distinct levels ranging from those similar to GCSE levels right up to those that equate to bachelor’s or master’s degree standards.

Although the majority of those commencing an apprenticeship are aged between 16 and 24, there is no upper age limit. If you want to upskill or retrain you can do it via an apprenticeship. Imagine all those people, dissatisfied with their existing role or keen to return to work and ready for a new challenge. 

Clear business benefits

So far, I have focused on the benefits for the apprentice, but the benefits for business are huge too. With a structured apprenticeship programme and the support of external training providers, the skills within your business naturally grow. You have the most up-to-date know-how in a team with diverse skills. Your apprentices become the source of innovative ideas and bring the best current practices and understanding into your organisation. 

The motivational factor cannot be underestimated either. An energised and positive team member can boost the whole team’s performance. Employers often report improved productivity, healthy competition and higher standards of quality and service throughout a business. 

Because apprentices undertake training with those from other organisations, they soon pick up valuable skills: networking, collaboration and teamwork. Often they become problem solvers, bringing insights and smart ideas to your operation.

Finally, the nature of apprenticeships supports the development of a diverse talent pool. Studies have shown that organisations with a diverse team are better at decision-making and have reduced levels of staff turnover.

I’ll leave you with one last thought: the theme of National Apprenticeship Week 2024 is “Skills for Life”. Surely no one can doubt that skills for life are a critical driver of business success.