In recent years apprenticeships have grown in popularity and are offered at a number of levels from level 2 (GCSE level) to level 7 (masters level), allowing students to choose from numerous paths via a mixture of A levels, diplomas and apprenticeships.
Young people can choose the path which suits their study style, personality, circumstances and their pockets – the most important thing is that they reach their full potential by whatever route is best for them.
With 150,000 opportunities available in more than 170 industries, and 1,500 different job roles nationwide, and from large national companies to small local ones, there’s never been a better time to become an apprentice.

1. You’ll earn while you learn
You’ll receive a wage and paid holiday. Depending on the employer, learning will either be on a one day a week basis, or in blocks of several days, and either in the workplace or at a local college.

2. You’ll gain work experience
Each week you’ll be working alongside experienced staff, while gaining job-specific skills and earning a wage. This means you can develop your knowledge and skills quickly. Your employer will also provide you with practical experience so you can put your new skills to the test – what better way to prepare for full-time work?

3. You’ll receive a qualification
At the end of the apprenticeship you’ll receive a qualification such as NVQ, HNC, BTEC or City and Guilds award. All of these are national, recognised qualifications that will look great on your CV.

4. You could go on to university
Once you complete your apprenticeship you may be able to go in to permanent work with your current employer, look at other jobs or go into higher education.

5. You could do a fee-free degree
Degree apprenticeships are a new type of higher apprenticeship in a range of technical subjects, which can lead to a full undergraduate degree as part of the apprenticeship. You work and study for a degree, while the government and your employer pay your fees.
Check out the National Apprenticeships Service at – www.findapprenticeship.
service.gov.uk/apprenticeshipsearch or the ­UCAS Progress search tool www.ucasprogress.com/search to look for apprenticeships in Gloucestershire.

Case Study – Steven Cant at Xograph Healthcare
Stonehouse-based medical equip-ment company, Xograph Healthcare, believes that investing in apprenticeship training will help it achieve its ambition for growth, and says its Gloucestershire College apprentice has “made a huge difference” to the business.
23-year-old Steven Cant from Stonehouse is an Apprentice Production/Development Engineer at Xograph, alongside studying for his HNC in Mechanical Engineering at Gloucestershire College’s Gloucester Campus.
He said: “My apprenticeship has given me so much confidence. I am very happy to contribute to discussions both at college and during development meetings at work. I have gained and enjoyed the use of 3D drawing and feel this is the path I wish to follow for my future career.”