This week is National Apprenticeship Week (10-14th February) – a celebration of the skills and contributions that apprentices bring to both businesses and communities.
To mark the occasion, a recent webinar discussion with apprentices from Vodafone, Virgin Media O2, and BT dispelled some of the stigma around degree apprenticeships and shed some light on the realities of working and studying.
Apprenticeships offer an alternative to traditional university education, providing hands-on industry experience alongside academic study, yet there are still misconceptions around what a degree apprenticeship means leaving many students uncertain about whether an apprenticeship is the right choice for them.
Support from teachers and parents
One of the biggest challenges for students considering apprenticeships is overcoming expectations that the traditional university path is the only viable option. One suggested way to offer support to students considering their options is for parents and teachers to have open discussions and encourage research into available opportunities.
Speaking on the subject, Sophie Willmott, BT, said: “I think the best thing that a parent and a teacher can do is offer a safe space, and maybe point [students] in the right direction to go, [saying] ‘Have you considered this? Have you done that?’ in a non-judgemental way.”
Being an apprentice means that you will be balancing full-time work with study – so self-motivation and resilience is crucial – but apprenticeships also offer long-term career benefits. Sheryl Teya, a software engineering apprentice at BT, said that despite initial fears about lacking technical knowledge, she quickly found support: “You can go into these spaces not knowing too much, but there are people there to support you and help you grow in your career.”
Entry requirements and career progression
Depending on the level of apprenticeship you are looking to do, qualification requirements vary. Some level 4 apprenticeships require no formal qualifications, while degree-level apprenticeships often ask for specific A-levels in relevant subjects. However, employers do stress that while qualifications do matter, don’t be deterred as potential, attitude, and skills all play a key role in the selection process.
Andrew Murchison from Vodafone, confirms: “The businesses want people – great academia is one thing, but the right attitude, determination, and enthusiasm matter just as much.”
Career progression is also very flexible, and apprentices can find that they once they transition into permanent roles, they are able, and often do, explore different areas within their companies. Ben Shoesmith, a Channel Marketing Executive at Virgin Media O2, shared how his apprenticeship helped him advance: “I started at Virgin Media 02 in 2021 as a network design apprentice on a level 4 project management apprenticeship … I rolled off into a permanent role and then I changed roles into the role of a Channel Marketing Executive … in this role I get to work on B2B marketing strategy, campaigns, and events.
“”Ultimeately, it helped me to kick-start my career and gave me an opportunity to work in an industry which I had no experience in previously. It’s helped me to learn and develop both at work and on a personal level.”
How do apprenticeships compare to university?
Apprenticeships provide the same academic credentials as a university degree but they carry with them the added advantage of gaining valuable industry experience whilst you learn. The apprentices interviewed were keen to share that they don’t believe they are at a disadvantage compared to their university-educated peer. In fact, they view it as being four years ahead in their careers – with salaries and experience that make them competitive in the job market.
Ben Yates from Vodafone spoke on this advantage: “My friends have also finished university now … I had a conversation with them and they’re saying that they wished they did a degree apprenticeship [because of] the position that it puts them in now, where they’re struggling to get jobs in the in the careers they want – because everyone is fighting for them.”
Advice for prospective apprentices
If you are considering an apprenticeship, then it was strongly advised to conduct thorough research, explore different industries, and leverage employer resources to find suitable opportunities. Network, engage on LinkedIn, and speak to current apprentices – all these things can help to make an informed decision.
Teya advised: “Make connections, go on LinkedIn, put yourself out there, and speak to people in the field you want to get into – you never know where those conversations might take you.”
Employers are also eager to support apprentices through structured programmes. With Wilmot highlighted the importance of tailored learning, saying that some apprentices having dedicated study days, whilst others work with managers to find flexible arrangements: “Our approach is that everyone learns differently, and we like to apply that in the workplace.”
So for anyone considering a degree apprenticeship, the argument is compelling! And it was noted by all the apprentices that they never felt like they were missing out on the social aspect of student life. In fact, they saw it as a gain – because they were building both their professional and social networks while earning a salary. And if they were attending work events the company pay – which allowed them to enjoy experiences without the financial strain of university life.
With backing from employers and clear routes for progression, degree apprenticeships are becoming an increasingly attractive alternative to traditional university routes and it’s not hard to see why.
