HOW TO PICK AN APPRENTICESHIP

STEP 1: Choose a career path that really interests you. Once you start training you will be committing to working in a particular role and for a particular company – so it is important to pick something you enjoy and are good at.

STEP 2: Search online for apprenticeships in your chosen sector. Those with GCSEs or equivalent should look for an Advanced Apprenticeship. If you have A-levels or equivalent search for Higher and Degree apprenticeships at: careermap.co.uk/careers/apprentice.

This is the organisation running National Apprenticeship Week and it lists the latest apprenticeship opportunities. findapprenticeship.service.gov.uk. This government website lets you search all available apprenticeships in your local area and nationally. ucas.com/apprenticeships-uk. Ucas offers more than just university places. If you are looking for an alternative to university or in-depth guides to apprenticeships on offer the Ucas website is comprehensive and impartial. findapprenticeships.co.uk. This features useful information about different types of apprenticeships, plenty of opportunities and links to leading employers. notgoingtouni.co.uk. Ideal for anyone looking for an alternative to a degree.

STEP 3: Choose your employer carefully. It is vital to pick a company that offers longterm job security.

In October last year, a survey of apprentices by the Sutton Trust found that more than one in ten respondents had been made redundant. For the remainder, learning was often suspended as a result of colleges being closed.

So check if your learning can be done online. In the wake of the Covid pandemic, training is now increasingly online with the Institute for Apprenticeships and Technical Education developing remote learning and assessment to enable apprenticeships to continue.