Apprenticeships: Myth-busting

This week is National Apprenticeship Week, a week-long celebration that unites businesses and apprentices nationwide, aiming to highlight the positive impact apprenticeships have on individuals, businesses, and the broader economy. We understand there is a lot of information out there to digest and sorting fact from fiction can be challenging. To help, we’ve compiled some of the top myths about apprenticeships, along with the real facts to provide clarity on this valuable form of education and career development.

Apprenticeships are only for young people – FALSE

As of 2017, there is no upper age limit for apprenticeship training. Apprenticeships are open to individuals of all working ages, spanning from 16 to 76. Anyone aged 16 and over can enrol on to an apprenticeship. In some cases, individuals may need to be over 18 due to health and safety reasons, so it’s advisable to check the specific requirements outlined in the job description to ensure eligibility.

Apprenticeships can be a great opportunity for individuals in their 40s or 50s, serving as a pathway for a career change later in life. This becomes especially advantageous if you have dependents, as you can earn and learn simultaneously.

Apprenticeships are only for new staff to the business – existing staff don’t qualify – FALSE

Most of our apprentices are individuals who are already employed by Churchill Group, taking full advantage of a fully funded apprenticeship training programme to enhance their skills and/or acquire professional qualifications. This approach allows our existing colleagues to further their development within our business, fostering a culture of continuous learning and skill enhancement.

Apprenticeships are too time-consuming and require 20% of study time – FALSE

The 20% off-the-job rule encompasses any learning activities that go beyond an individual’s regular work duties. This includes engaging in short course training modules, participating in shadowing experiences, receiving mentorship, and engaging in one-to-one learning sessions. This provision ensures that apprentices dedicate a significant portion of their time to activities specifically designed to enhance their skills, knowledge, and overall development beyond their routine job responsibilities.

Apprenticeships are only for the construction or trade industry – FALSE

This is no longer the case and hasn’t been for a while.

Churchill offers a comprehensive range of apprenticeship training across various sectors, encompassing:

• Cleaning, Hospitality & Catering
• Business Administration & Customer Service
• IT, Data Management, and Cyber Security
• Facilities Services, Facilities Management & Security
• Team Leading/Supervision, Management
• Project Management – all sectors
• Human Resources, Learning & Development, Coaching

This breadth of options allows individuals to choose pathways that align with their interests and career goals.

Apprenticeships don’t offer the same job opportunities as degrees – FALSE

Apprenticeships hold significant value and can provide as many opportunities as pursuing a degree. They are accessible across a broad spectrum, ranging from Level 2 (equivalent to GCSE) up to Level 7 (equivalent to a master’s degree). This versatility allows individuals to choose apprenticeships that align with their educational goals and career aspirations, offering a viable and valuable alternative to traditional degree paths.

For more information or to discuss further please contact training@churchillservices.com