Apprenticeships are a great way to learn skills while working and earning a wage.
Available to anyone over 16, gone are the days when only school leavers looking for technical trade applied.
Apprenticeships can be found across many different sectors, from digital marketing to HR, and are available whether you’re looking to upskill in your current role or learn new skills to change careers.
If you didn’t know that graduates could apply for an apprenticeship, then read on.
Can you do an apprenticeship if you have a degree?
Absolutely! In fact, many individuals who have completed higher education often choose to pursue an apprenticeship to further enhance their skills and career prospects.
In May 2017, the UK Government introduced the apprenticeship levy and made significant changes to the learning landscape. As a result, graduates are now eligible to apply for apprenticeships -regardless of their previous qualifications or education level.
Moreover, the Government has placed a strong emphasis on expanding the availability of higher-level apprenticeships. These advanced programmes, which range from Level 6 to 7, are equal to Degree and Masters levels. This initiative provides a wider selection of apprenticeship opportunities and promotes continuous learning across all educational levels.
Is it worth doing an apprenticeship after a degree?
Even if you've already attained a degree, there are many benefits of pursuing an adult apprenticeship. Apprenticeships offer a unique blend of hands-on experience and theoretical learning, providing practical skills that complement and enhance academic knowledge.
Apprentices have the unique opportunity to gain industry-specific expertise, boost employability within a chosen role or field, and access new career pathways.
Additionally, apprenticeships often lead to meaningful employment opportunities and can fast-track career progression by equipping individuals with in-demand skills tailored to the needs of a specific sector or industry.
Whether you have previous qualifications or not, apprenticeships can unlock a unique avenue for continuous learning, professional development, and career advancement.
Eligibility and funding criteria for apprenticeships
In terms of eligibility, the main stipulation for graduates is that they cannot already have a degree in a similar qualification to their chosen apprenticeship.
There must be ‘significant new learning in the apprenticeship qualification’; meaning that learners should gain substantial new skills from their apprenticeship, and that it should be different from any previous training.
Graduates are also eligible for funding, which means that many employers with training budgets boosted by the apprenticeship levy seek to attract new learners via apprenticeship positions.
Understanding the different apprenticeship levels
Learners can start an apprenticeship whether they are starting their career, are looking for a =change, or aspire to upskill within their current job role.
Each apprenticeship has a level and educational equivalent. They can go far beyond the scope of on-the-job training, ranging from GCSEs to PhDs.
The standard apprenticeship levels are:
- Level 2 apprenticeship: equal to a GCSE
- Level 3 apprenticeship: equal to an A Level
- Levels 4 & 5 apprenticeships: equal to a foundation degree and above
- Levels 6 &7 apprenticeships:equal to a bachelor's or master's degree
Level 8 apprenticeship: equal to a PhD or doctorate degreeOne compelling aspect of apprenticeship roles is that apprentices earn while they learn. No matter which learning level is chosen (or the reasons for embarking on one) apprenticeships offer recognised qualifications,the latest industry training, and in-demand professional skills; without the tuition fees or student loans.
Choosing the right training provider for your apprenticeship
While some businesses offer in-house training provisions for apprenticeships, there are also a wide range of training providers ready to help along the way.
At Total People, we take the time to understand your business, designing the right training plans based on the needs of your role or employer.
Our dedicated team are available to help you every step of the way. We provide apprenticeship training in over 30 sectors and with years of apprenticeship experience, we can help you find your ideal adult apprenticeship.
Browse our vacancies and begin your next stage of your career today.
