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Apprenticeships vs university – why an apprenticeship is a viable alternative to university - healthcare apprenticeship

Apprenticeships vs university why an apprenticeship is a viable alternative to university

Deciding between apprenticeships vs university? Do you go to university and get a degree or choose an apprenticeship and earn while you learn?

It’s time to explore which route would may best for you. In order to make the best choice, it’s good to be informed!

Apprenticeships vs university – why an apprenticeship is a viable alternative to university - healthcare apprenticeship

What is an apprenticeship?

An apprenticeship is a qualification where you can earn while you learn.

It provides hands-on, on-the-job training, as well as related classroom learning, which allows you to develop a wide range of valuable workplace and life skills.

These skills not only include technical skills specific to a particular trade or profession, but also important transferable skills. These include problem-solving, communication, teamwork, and time management.

Additionally, apprenticeships can also provide opportunities for individuals to develop valuable professional networks and gain a deeper understanding of their chosen industry or field.

As a result, individuals who complete apprenticeships are well-prepared for long-term success in their chosen careers. Not only are they adaptable to change but also have the ability to continue learning and growing throughout their lives.

Apprenticeships are for all ages too. Did you know? More than 1/3 of apprentices at Activate Apprenticeships are 19+!

Pros of apprenticeships

Here’s why an apprenticeship can be a viable alternative to university. Apprenticeships:

  • Hands-on experience – provide practical, hands-on experience in a specific trade or profession, which can be valuable for certain careers
  • On-the-job training – offer on-the-job training, which can be a more effective way to learn certain skills compared to classroom instruction
  • Clear career pathway – often lead to well-paying jobs and can offer a clear path to a successful career
  • Cost-effective – tend to be less expensive than traditional university degrees
  • Earn while you learn – are a way to learn and earn simultaneously, which can help to reduce student debt
  • Flexibility – can be tailored to the individual’s needs and can be full-time or part-time, dependent on the person’s circumstances

It’s simple, there are plenty of benefits to becoming an apprentice.

What types of apprenticeship can you do?

At Activate Apprenticeships, you can do an apprenticeship in the following industries:

You’ll attend college one day a week or with some programmes, not at all.

Overall, apprenticeships can be a great way for people to gain specific skills and knowledge in a particular field, and to move into a career without incurring the costs and time involved in a traditional university degree.

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Progression routes

What happens next? Most people stay on with the employer they train with, but there are plenty of options! You may decide to study a higher-level apprenticeship, return to academic studies, or work full time. We will support you whatever you decide!

The apprenticeship programme

You will have access to a range of support and advice we have on offer. This includes support from Advice and Admissions, Learning Support and Student Support.

You can access all facilities at Activate Learning Colleges and reap benefits, such as student discount. However, you may not be entitled to certain funding and travel bursaries as apprenticeships are paid positions.

How much will I earn?

The amount you’ll earn will vary depending on the nature of your role, sector and business you are working with.

The minimum hourly rate for an apprentice is £8.00, however most apprentices are paid more than this. If you are over 19 and have completed one year, you will be paid national minimum wage. 

You will also be entitled to the same conditions as all other employees in a business, including paid holiday, sick pay and pensions (where requirements are met).

What can I expect from my apprenticeship?

You must be at least 16 years old when you start an apprenticeship.

There are 3 types of apprenticeships depending on your requirements and previous qualifications: day release, work-based and block-release.

Your apprenticeship programme may be assessed with:

  • Practical assessments/exams
  • A portfolio of evidence
  • Interviews and presentations
  • Final assessments
  • On and off the job training

You will have a performance coach visit your workplace every eight weeks as well as an inhouse mentor throughout your apprenticeship.

An apprenticeship typically lasts 24 months, but can vary between 12 months to 5 years.