Why starting work at 16 could be smarter than going to uni as apprenticeships surge in popularity

Starting your career at 16 could be the smartest move you can make. Leaving school after GCSEs fell out of favour due to a push to get more people into university. But nine in ten youngsters are now open to the idea of an apprenticeship over a conventional university degree. Leah Sargent, hard at work, above, chose to take an apprenticeship in the motors sector after leaving school and is now a bodyshop technician apprentice with Sytner BMW in Cardiff Credit: Supplied Leah said: ‘Choosing an apprenticeship means earning a salary from day one, gaining real industry experience and completely avoiding university debt’ Credit: Supplied And a new Checkatrade study shows that 62 per cent of parents say rising youth unemployment has made them more favourable about on-the-job training for their children. Michael Houlihan, from employment non-profit organisation Generation UK, said: “More young people are choosing to enter work earlier because they’re taking a more pragmatic view of their options. Sign up for the Money newsletter Thank you! “University remains a strong route for some but rising costs and uncertain returns mean it’s no longer the default for everyone. “For many, starting work or an apprenticeship at 16 or 18 offers a very attractive and practical alternative.” Apprenticeships offer a route into work with recognised qualifications and are equivalent to five GCSEs. Level 3 apprenticeships are equivalent to two A-levels Credit: Unknown Leaving school after GCSEs fell out of favour due to a push to get more people into university. But nine in ten youngsters are now open to the idea of an apprenticeship over a degree Credit: Alamy Stock Photo As GCSE results day approaches on August 20, student job site Higherin reports that one in five young people are applying for direct-to-work routes, rather than taking BTECs or A-levels. For school leavers with no work experience, Level 2 Foundation Apprenticeships offer a route into work with recognised qualifications and are equivalent to five GCSEs. Level 3 apprenticeships are equivalent to two A-levels. Leah Sargent chose to take an apprenticeship in the motors sector after leaving school and is now a bodyshop technician apprentice with Sytner BMW in Cardiff, where she lives. Leah said: “Choosing an apprenticeship means earning a salary from day one, gaining real industry experience and completely avoiding university debt. Most read in Money “An apprenticeship typically requires only basic maths and English GCSEs. It is essential to demonstrate a strong work ethic, maintain a positive outlook, show initiative and be receptive to new ideas. “As with any apprenticeship, passion for the role can significantly enhance your chances of success. My interest in cars and dedication to my trade have enabled me to access further opportunities, including receiving two awards.” Aimee Wallis, careers lead at Institute of the Motor Industry, added: “The sector is undergoing rapid trans- formation, from electrification and autonomous vehicles to the use of data and AI. “There are over 200 job roles across a wide range of disciplines, encompassing everything from data analysis to cyber security, which means an automotive apprenticeship is a door opener to a hugely wide and varied career.” Education Secretary Lucy Powell said: “We’re ending the snobbery around hands-on learning so that, no matter what path your child chooses — whether that’s apprenticeships, T-levels, A-levels or a vocational course — they will be given the chance to succeed.” Find out more at moretomotor.org.uk FIVE POST-GCSE OPTIONS 1. A-levels: The traditional academic route allows you to study three or four subjects in-depth. Good choice if you intend to go to university or already have a specific career in mind. 2. T-levels: The technical route, focused on one sector. You mix classroom study with a work placement. It can lead to higher-level apprenticeships, university or a skilled job. 3. Vocational course: Includes BTECs or NVQs, practical qualifications designed to teach specific knowledge and hands-on skills for particular jobs. 4. Apprenticeships: This is a paid job with specialised training leading to a built-in qualification. 5. V-level: From September next year you can take the new vocational V-level. Each V-level is equivalent to one A-level. They are designed to let students mix practical, applied learning with academic subjects. But what if I don’t get grade 4 English and maths? If you’re close to a pass, you can resit your exams and study while you’re taking A-level, T-level, a vocational course or an apprenticeship. If you need extra support to get the grade 4, look at functional skills qualifications to prepare you to resit the GCSE. JOB SPOT START your career without going to uni. There are more than 400 job vacancies listed at notgoingtouni.co.uk/opportunities LOTS OF HELP IN WORLD OF WORK Tracey Moss, Advice Knowledge Manager at Citizens Advice. offers her advice for school leavers taking their first steps into the world of work Credit: Supplied IT may feel daunting if you have chosen to start work at 16 but there is plenty of help at hand. Tracey Moss, above, Advice Knowledge Manager at Citizens Advice, shares her top tips to get your career started. 1. BE WARY OF USING AI: When you are feeling the pressure to get out as many applications as possible, it can be tempting to turn to AI. However, employers can usually tell when you have used it and it might put them off wanting to take your application any further. In my experience, it is best to always use your own words. 2. DO YOUR HOMEWORK: Research both the role and the employer, and adjust your CV to align with the job you are applying for. Never lie on your application but add emphasis to certain skills and experience that fit the role you are applying for. Take some time to look into who the company is and its values as an organisation. 3. STAND OUT FROM THE CROWD: Employers want people with experience, but if you have just left school, it is unlikely you will have much. Gain some experience through volunteering. Not only will this help you build vital skills but it will make a positive difference to people’s lives. 4. LOOK AFTER YOURSELF: Job hunting can take a real toll on your mental wellbeing. Endless applications, back to back rejections and being ghosted is tough. So if you need support, get in touch with Student Minds, YoungMinds or Mind. 5. PERFECT GETTING PAID: Secured your first job? Check if you are on the apprenticeship rate or National Minimum Wage using the National Minimum Wage calculator at gov.uk. Your payslip is a record of what you have been paid and any deductions made. Find out more at acas.org.uk/payslips. By law, your employer has to offer a workplace pension scheme and automatically enrol anyone who is eligible. The earlier you start saving, the more money you will have in later life when you retire. JOB SPOT CHICKEN chain NANDO’S is hiring for its Level 2 Apprenticeship, open to school leavers. Find out more at nandos.careers/our-roles/ early-careers GEN Z NO TO CITIES AFTER decades of young workers flocking to London and other major cities to start their careers, new research suggests that 47 per cent of Gen Z are looking to stay in their local communities after education. The study, from Coca-Cola, found that being near family and having a more affordable cost of living are key factors. In total, 58 per cent of Gen Z are considering more vocational job opportunities. Dusan Stojankic, from Coca-Cola, said: “This research shows a clear shift in how younger people are thinking about work and ambition. Many are looking beyond the traditional path of moving to a major city and are instead choosing careers that offer practical skills, stability and a stronger connection to home.” DRIVING TECH Currys is tripling its apprenticeship scheme with 130 driver roles available across the UK Credit: Supplied TECH retailer Currys is tripling the number of apprenticeships it has on offer, with 130 positions for driver apprentices. The permanent roles are based across the UK – from Aberdeen to Plymouth – and cover both 7.5-tonne and 3.5-tonne vehicles. Once trained, drivers will help deliver and install technology. Anyone holding a basic driving licence is able to apply. Apprentices will receive on-the-job training alongside the chance to gain a C1 7.5tn LGV licence, while also earning £29,858 plus a bonus of up to ten per cent. There are a further 170 jobs for delivery drivers and drivers’ assistants. For more details, and to apply, see curryscareers.co.uk. Comment now