Apprenticeships have evolved beyond being a pathway for just young people, they are now available for all levels of experience to overcome the UK’s ever-growing skills gap. The government’s introduction of the apprenticeship levy has meant that many organisations can now use upskill and reskill new and existing employees. With apprenticeships now available for junior to managerial positions, anyone in a variety of sectors can enrol. This infographic will clear up any preconceived ideas that you hold surrounding apprenticeships. 6 apprenticeship myths busted; debunking the misconceptions surround apprenticeships.
Myth 1: Apprenticeships are only for young people
TRUTH: Apprenticeships are available to people over the age of 16. This makes them a great option for anyone looking to improve their skills, change careers, and re-enter the market after taking time out for a reason.
Myth 2: Apprenticeships are only for new recruits
TRUTH: It does not matter how long someone has been in a role. As long as they are learning new skills, existing employees can join an apprenticeship to develop their skillset and knowledge, and gain professional qualifications.
Myth 3: Apprenticeships are low-level qualifications
TRUTH: Apprenticeship levels range from the equivalent of getting a qualification at GCSE (Level 2) right up to degree standard (Level 7). This means you can achieve a degree-level qualification but with on-the-job training!
Myth 4: You will have to go back to school
TRUTH: Apprenticeships require 20% off-the-job training but this does not mean that you will have to go to school. A lot of the time, this learning can be shadowing employees and attending online training – not always off-site.
Myth 5: Apprenticeships earn less
TRUTH: As a current employee, your contract of employment does not change. Your salary will not decrease as per the conditions of your contract. However, your earning potential increases as you develop new skills, undertake work-based projects and become more productive (if that’s even possible).
Myth 6: Apprenticeships are not relevant to me
TRUTH: Apprenticeships are often seen as being solely in manual jobs. However, they are now offered in over 1,500 occupations across 170 industries including financial operations.
What’s Next?
Now that we’ve busted these apprenticeship myths, are you ready to discover how you can take the opportunity to upskill yourself with a professional apprenticeship qualification?
IFOL provides apprenticeships across a variety of financial operation disciplines. If you would like to find out more, visit us here or get in contact with us now.
