What is an Apprenticeship?

An apprenticeship is a form of paid work where you study while you get on-the-job experience.

Apprenticeships not only offer the chance to work towards nationally recognised qualifications but also provide hands-on industry experience through work-based learning, making them a valuable choice for those seeking a holistic approach to their education and career development.

Are Apprenticeship right for you?

Choosing the next step in your educational journey can be a daunting task, especially for recent school leavers who may not see traditional college or university paths as their ideal route. Often, there’s an unspoken stigma associated with diverging from these paths; however, it’s important to recognise that pursuing a college or university education is not the sole option for furthering your knowledge and skills. For those who thrive on hands-on learning, apprenticeships offer an attractive alternative.

In today’s rapidly evolving job market, apprenticeships have emerged as an enticing avenue for individuals to gain valuable skills, hands-on experience, and a firm footing in their chosen careers. Apprenticeships provide a dynamic departure from traditional educational avenues, presenting a unique blend of practical training and classroom-based learning.

As the demand for a highly skilled and adaptable workforce continues to surge, apprenticeships have risen in prominence, serving as a bridge that connects motivated individuals with industries eagerly seeking fresh talent.

Different kinds of Apprenticeships

In Scotland, there are three types of apprenticeships:

  • Foundation (a work-based learning opportunity for senior-phase secondary school pupils while they complete their National 5s and Highers);
  • Modern (aimed at those aged 16 and over); and
  • Graduate (which allows apprentices to take their studies up to a Masters’ level, learning on-the-job while working towards finishing their degree at a university or college).

For a comprehensive understanding of the qualifications associated with apprenticeships in Scotland and how they align with other Scottish Vocational Qualifications (SVQs), the SCQF website provides a useful framework.

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