What if we told you there was a way to start a job without experience? That you’d receive on-the-job training in real-time and that you’d earn a wage from the get-go? Would you be interested? This is no industry secret; it’s the foundation of all apprenticeships.
In this blog, we’ll delve deeper into the world of apprenticeships, exploring how on-the-job training can empower you to reach your ultimate career goals. Of course, we’ll also show you how to find and apply for your ideal apprenticeship so you can kickstart your career.
So, let’s dive right in!
What Is An Apprenticeship?
In short, an apprenticeship is a paid job in which you work 80% of the time, and spend the other 20% of your time in classroom learning. In this role, you will be training for a specific job position so, at the end of your apprenticeship, you will receive both an official qualification and, hopefully, a job.
During this time your employer will pay you at least the National Minimum Wage for apprentices, which is £5.28 per hour (tax year 23/24), although many apprenticeships will offer more. This is to both the apprentice’s and the employer’s advantage as offering more than the bare minimum should help them to attract the best candidates for their vacancy.
What Is On-The-Job Training?
We mentioned above that you work 80% of the time and spend 20% of your time in classroom learning. The working part is called “on-the-job training” while the classroom part is “off-the-job training”.
Due to the nature of apprenticeships, your time spent working is also time spent learning. This hands-on learning puts the apprentice in the driving seat. It allows them to experience what it’s really like to work in their chosen field from the get-go. This approach works well across all industries but is especially beneficial for more practical professions like carpentry or construction. Apprentices also receive guidance from experienced professionals, or mentors, throughout the entire process.
The Power of Apprenticeships
We’ll now explore the advantages of on-the-job training and how you can unlock your potential with an apprenticeship.
1. Learn by Doing
On-the-job training allows you to learn through real-world experiences, putting the theory from your off-the-job training directly into practice. Unlike more traditional higher education, you’ll be actively engaged in meaningful work tasks, projects, and assignments. This hands-on approach allows you to develop a deep understanding of your field and gain practical skills that are highly valued by employers.
2. Gain Industry Insights
Apprenticeships give you the chance to work directly in your chosen industry. This means that you’ll gain invaluable insights into how it operates. Furthermore, you’ll be exposed to the day-to-day operations, industry trends, and best practices, allowing you to understand the industry’s nuances and develop a network of professional contacts. This industry knowledge will give you a competitive edge and help you make informed decisions about your career path.
3. Mentorship and Guidance
One of the best things about apprenticeships is that you get to work closely with experienced mentors who will be there to guide and support you every step of the way. These experienced mentors can offer you invaluable advice, feedback, and support. Consequently, you will develop your skills, boost your confidence, and become more professional. Learning from their expertise can speed up your learning process and set you up for success in your chosen field.
4. Earn While You Learn
Unlike university or college, apprenticeships offer an “earn while you learn” approach. Instead of paying expensive university tuition fees, you’ll be paid a wage for the work you do during your apprenticeship training. This means you can start earning money right away, while also gaining valuable work experience and building your skills. This financial independence allows you to support yourself and potentially avoid hefty student loans. As a result, apprenticeships are a practical and attractive option for those looking to enter the workforce.
5. Bridge the Gap to Employment
Doing an apprenticeship provides you with a direct pathway to employment. In fact, many apprentices are offered permanent positions with their employers after completing their apprenticeship. By gaining practical experience and developing relevant skills through on-the-job training, you’ll be in a better position to compete in the job market and land a full-time job in your chosen field. In this way, apprenticeships can be a stepping stone to a successful and fulfilling career.
Key Takeaways
In conclusion, on-the-job training through apprenticeships is a powerful way to unlock your full potential and kickstart your career. With the opportunity to learn by doing, gain industry insights, receive mentorship and guidance, earn while you learn, and bridge the gap to employment, apprenticeships are a no-frills way to gain key skills and accelerate your career growth.
If you’re looking to make your mark in your chosen field, we encourage you to consider the power of on-the-job training through an apprenticeship. Start your journey towards success today by searching the Employing an Apprentice jobs board!
We’ve got plenty of help and advice for apprentices, including dedicated guides on;
and much, much more.
Our in-depth Apprenticeship Standards section allows you to search for the apprenticeship you’re interested in, providing you with a wealth of information on what’s involved in the apprenticeship and how to apply.
Feel free to contact our team if you have any questions. And don’t forget to sign up for our newsletter using the form below for all the latest news and opportunities from Employing an Apprentice.
