Apprenticeships provide a unique combination of practical work experience and academic study. They require apprentices to spend a minimum of 15 hours per week in training or study, with the remainder of their time spent gaining hands-on experience in the workplace. The typical duration of an apprenticeship program is 2-4 years, depending on the level and complexity of the apprenticeship.
Apprenticeships are available at various levels, from intermediate (equivalent to GCSEs) to advanced (equivalent to A-Levels) and higher/degree apprenticeships (equivalent to a foundation or bachelor’s degree).
Did you know? Apprenticeships are an increasingly popular post-16 option in the UK.
Apprenticeships in the UK cover over 1,500 job roles across more than 170 industries. Common apprenticeship pathways include fields such as engineering, business administration, construction, and healthcare. This wide range of options means that there is likely an apprenticeship to suit nearly every interest and career goal, from digital marketing to culinary arts.
Cumbria boasts some impressive statistics for apprenticeship success with almost 80% of young people (16-18-year olds) who begin an apprenticeship, complete and achieve their apprenticeship, which is the highest rate for this age group in the whole country.
Achievement for young people in Advanced Apprenticeships is over 85% which again is the highest in the country.
Apprenticeships are paid for by the government and employers, making them a cost-effective route to a career. Apprentices also earn a wage while they learn, making apprenticeships a financially viable option for many students. The minimum apprentice wage is set by the government, but many employers pay more. This allows apprentices to earn money while gaining valuable work experience and qualifications.
The popularity of apprenticeships continues to grow, with over 700,000 apprenticeship starts in England since 2015. This trend reflects the increasing recognition of apprenticeships as a valuable alternative to traditional academic routes, offering practical experience and strong career prospects.
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