Choosing what to do after school or college can feel overwhelming. This is true for young people, but it can also feel confusing for parents.
For many years, university was seen as the main route after school. Today, apprenticeships are becoming a popular choice too. They give young people the chance to gain a qualification, earn a salary and build real work experience from day one.
If your child is thinking about an apprenticeship, you may have lots of questions. How do apprenticeships work? Are they a good alternative to university? How do applications work? And how can you support them?
This guide answers the key questions parents often ask, so you can help your child make an informed choice about their future.
What Is an Apprenticeship?
An apprenticeship is a real job with training. Apprentices work for an employer while studying towards a recognised qualification. This means they can earn while they learn.
Unlike university students, apprentices are employees. They receive a salary, paid holiday and the same employment rights as other staff. Their training costs are covered by their employer and Government funding, so they do not pay tuition fees.
However, apprentices usually cannot access some student benefits, such as a student loan.
Apprenticeships or University?
There is no right or wrong answer. The best route depends on your child’s career goals, learning style and personal ambitions.
University offers a more traditional student experience. It can give young people more time to explore a subject before entering work.
Apprenticeships offer a more practical route. They allow young people to start their career straight away while gaining qualifications and learning from experienced professionals.
Many higher and degree apprentice’s complete qualifications that are, or equivalent to, a university degree, without building up tuition fee debt.
Rather than encouraging one route over another, help your child explore all their options before making a decision. To learn more, read our guide on University vs Apprenticeships.
The Benefits of an Apprenticeship
Apprenticeships offer a wide range of advantages, including:
- Earning a salary from day one.
- Avoiding tuition fees.
- Gaining real workplace experience.
- Achieving recognised qualifications.
- Building skills employers value
- Growing a network of industry contacts.
- Excellent progression opportunities into higher-level qualifications or permanent roles.
Employers are increasingly using apprenticeships to develop future talent. This means successful apprentices may have the chance to stay with the same organisation after their programme ends. This is not guaranteed, but it is the common outcome, as companies are investing time and money into future workers.
The Challenges to Consider
While apprenticeships can be rewarding, but they require commitment.
Apprentices need to balance work and study. They are expected to do their job while also completing coursework, assignments and assessments.
Parents should understand that apprentices will experience:
- A busy workload: A full-time job and study
- Less Holiday: Work annual leave, rather than school holidays
- Lower starting salaries: compared to non apprentices, however their qualifications are funded.
Understanding Apprenticeship Levels
Apprenticeships are available at different levels. Depending on the role and industry, they can take from one to six years to complete.
They range from Level 2, which is similar to GCSE level, through to Level 7, which is equivalent to a Master’s degree.
Some students after secondary school, start with an intermediate apprenticeship. Other students apply for a degree apprenticeship after completing their A Levels or other level 3 qualification.
Each level helps apprentices build new knowledge, skills and behaviours while moving forward in their career.
For a full breakdown, read our Apprenticeship Levels Explained article.
How Apprenticeship Applications Work
Applying for an apprenticeship is similar to applying for a graduate or entry-level job.
Most employers ask candidates to complete several stages, such as:
- An online application.
- A CV.
- Sometimes a cover letter.
- Online assessments.
- Video or telephone interviews.
- Assessment centres.
- Final interviews.
Competition can be high, especially for degree apprenticeships with large employers as they gain traction. It is important to apply early and stay organised. Encourage your child to keep a record of applications, deadlines and interview dates. This can make the process feel more manageable.
For many young people, this may be their first experience of a formal recruitment process. There may be highs, lows and rejections along the way.
As a parent, you may be able to share your own experience of CVs, interviews and applications. Just remember that apprenticeship recruitment can be different from other job searches, so it is worth researching each employer’s process carefully.
You can browse current opportunities on the Early Talent Academy Jobs Board, or read our complete guide to Apprenticeship Applications for more advice.
When to Apply to Apprenticeships
Large schemes usually open from September in their final year of school for roles that start the following September, especially degree apprenticeships, as they must follow the university school year.
However, apprenticeships are opening year-round based on the companies’ requirements. This is common with smaller companies and apprenticeships in levels 2 to 4, as they do not follow the same strict year structure.
Apprenticeships Are Competitive
One common myth is that apprenticeships are an easier option than university.
In reality, many employers receive a large number of applications for a small number of places. This is especially true in sectors such as finance, engineering and technology.
Rejection is a normal part of the process.
Encourage your child to apply for several opportunities, keep improving their CV and practise their interview skills. Every application can help them build confidence and experience.
How Parents Can Support Their Child
Parents often play a huge role in helping young people stay motivated throughout the application process.
You don’t need to know everything about apprenticeships to provide valuable support.
Some of the best ways to help include:
- Learn about the apprenticeship route they are interested in.
- Encourage them to research different employers and industries.
- Reviewing their CV and applications.
- Practise interview questions together.
- Celebrate progress, not just job offers.
- Helping them stay resilient after rejection.
- Support them in exploring all options, including university, apprenticeships and other career routes.
Your role is not to choose their future for them. It is to help them make the choice that feels right for them.
Hear from Someone Who Has Done It
One of the best ways to understand what an apprenticeship is really like is to hear from someone who has experienced it first-hand.
Our My Degree Apprenticeship Experience article shares what to expect, the challenges, the benefits and advice for students considering this route.
Final Thoughts
Apprenticeships are an exciting way for young people to start their careers. They offer the chance to earn a salary, gain a recognised qualification and build real workplace experience.
As a parent, your support can make a real difference. By understanding how apprenticeships work and helping your child prepare, you can give them more confidence as they take their next step.
Register to learn more about our upcoming apprenticeship opportunities. Your future is waiting – are you ready?
FAQ's
Are apprenticeships a good alternative to university?
Yes, for many students they are. Apprenticeships offer the chance to earn a salary, gain recognised qualifications and build workplace experience while learning. University and apprenticeships both have their advantages, so the best option depends on your child’s career goals, preferred way of learning and long-term ambitions.
Do apprentices get paid?
Yes. Apprentices are employees, so they receive a salary and are entitled to paid annual leave and other employment rights. The minimum apprenticeship wage is set by the Government, although many employers choose to pay more.
Do apprentices pay tuition fees?
No. The cost of an apprenticeship is funded by the employer and the Government, so apprentices do not pay tuition fees for their qualification.
How competitive are apprenticeships?
Many apprenticeships are highly competitive, particularly degree apprenticeships and programmes with large employers. It’s common for employers to receive hundreds of applications for a small number of places, so applying early and to multiple opportunities can improve your child’s chances.
Can my child apply for both university and apprenticeships?
Absolutely. Many students apply for both while they decide which route is right for them. Keeping both options open gives your child more flexibility and allows them to compare offers before making a final decision.
How can I help my child with apprenticeship applications?
You can support them by encouraging them to research employers, reviewing their CV and application, practising interview questions together and helping them stay organised throughout the recruitment process. Most importantly, offer encouragement and help them stay positive if they face rejection.
