{"id":10322,"date":"2023-03-02T01:56:23","date_gmt":"2023-03-02T01:56:23","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/explorecareers.co.uk\/?p=10322"},"modified":"2024-01-22T02:07:06","modified_gmt":"2024-01-22T02:07:06","slug":"5-reasons-to-consider-an-apprenticeship-in-2023","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/explorecareers.co.uk\/5-reasons-to-consider-an-apprenticeship-in-2023\/","title":{"rendered":"5 Reasons to Consider an Apprenticeship in 2023"},"content":{"rendered":"Reading Time: <\/span> 3<\/span> minutes<\/span><\/span>

Apprenticeships are on the UP, and we LOVE to see it!<\/p>\n

If you know you want to keep learning, but you\u2019re not sure university is the right pathway – or you\u2019re feeling ready to start your career – apprenticeships are the perfect opportunity.<\/p>\n

And they\u2019ve come a long way in recent years. Wondering what that looks like? Let\u2019s find out!<\/p>\n

How Does An Apprenticeship Work?<\/strong><\/h4>\n

An apprenticeship combines the world of work with the world of study.<\/p>\n

You\u2019ll be employed in your chosen industry, gain hands-on practical experience, and study with a college, training provider, or university to achieve a professional qualification. Apprenticeships are available in an increasing number of industries, with over 1500 different roles currently available.<\/p>\n

Entry requirements are varied and offer lots of flexibility. No matter your academic circumstances, there\u2019s an opportunity to help you get started.<\/p>\n

What Are the Apprenticeship Levels?<\/strong><\/h4>\n

You might have seen or heard apprenticeships referred to by \u2018levels\u2019 – this just means the level of qualification you\u2019ll study at. They range from entry (Level 2) to degree-equivalent (Level 7).<\/p>\n

Here\u2019s a quick overview:<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
Level 2 – Intermediate Apprenticeships<\/td>\nAlso referred to as \u2018entry level\u2019 apprenticeships, you\u2019ll secure a vocational qualification, usually a Level 2 NVQ, equivalent to five GCSEs grades A*-C, alongside Functional Skills (English and Maths). You might also work towards a BTEC, GCSE, or City & Guilds qualification.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Level 3 – Advanced Apprenticeships<\/td>\nYou\u2019ll work towards achieving a Level 3 NVQ qualification, or equivalent, and often also gain a knowledge-based certificate such as a BTEC and Functional Skills.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Level 4 & 5 – Higher Apprenticeships<\/td>\nHigher apprenticeships are a little different – you usually have to be 18, completed an advanced apprenticeship or attained a minimum of two A-levels. Higher apprentices typically gain a Level 4 NVQ (or above) but can also work towards a foundation degree or higher national diploma.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Level 6 & 7 – Degree Apprenticeships<\/td>\nSince successfully launching in 2015, degree apprenticeships have grown in popularity and availability. You\u2019ll work towards achieving a Bachelor\u2019s or Master\u2019s degree (Level 6 and 7 qualifications, respectively).<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n

Apprenticeships: The Latest Stats<\/strong><\/h4>\n

Apprenticeship starts took a hit during the pandemic years, understandably, as young people couldn\u2019t get into the workplace (kind of essential for these pathways!).<\/p>\n

But things are starting to look much better! According to the latest 2022\/2023 report for GOV.uk<\/a>:<\/p>\n