NATIONAL APPRENTICESHIP WEEK COMES OF AGE 

National Apprenticeship Week turns 18 this February! To celebrate this milestone and to kick-off this year’s National Apprenticeship Week, we’re sharing 18 fascinating facts about apprenticeships. 

These career game-changers bridge the gap between education and work, giving you the tools and experience to conquer your career aspirations. Whether fresh out of school, on a gap year, or ready to switch up mid-career, apprenticeships should be setting off your radar big time.

1. Get a dedicated mentor 

From day one, you’ll have a coach and sounding board [https://lcrbemore.co.uk/news/the-importance-of-the-apprenticeship-mentor/] guiding you through your apprentice journey

2. It’s a proper job 

All the perks of standard employment apply to apprenticeships – contracts, holiday leave, payslips …. it is the world of work, after all!

3. Thousands of options 

If you are curious about how many different apprenticeships there are, discover more than 700 in the updated A-Z list [https://www.amazingapprenticeships.com/resources/a-z-of-apprenticeship-standards/]

4. Walk the walk

Apprenticeships focus on developing hands-on experience… you’ll be getting stuck into practising tasks in the workplace from day one, walking the walk, not just talking about things.

5. Age limit is a myth

Once you have turned 16, there is no upper age limit. If you decide on a new career at 26 or a change in direction at 46 or 56, apprenticeships are an option for all ages.

6. Better-than-basic pay 

Respect to the many employers who pay more than the National Minimum Apprenticeship Rate….and if a firm wants you, there is nothing to stop you from negotiating.

7. Learn, earn, grow 

An apprenticeship develops your skills, knowledge, and behaviours to confirm to employers that you reach the industry-agreed standards required for your role. 

8. Gain formal qualifications 

Some apprenticeships also include the award of a certified, industry-recognised qualification … boosting your CV and giving you credibility

9. No GCSEs? No problem 

Apprenticeships can still kick start your career, even if you didn’t get the required grades in English or maths. All apprenticeships help you brush up your skills in these areas as well as train for your chosen industry role.

10. Apprenticeships are available at degree level

Degree Apprenticeships are an alternative to a more traditional university undergraduate course. They can propel your career and life by offering a degree qualification, salary, no student debt, and industry experience.

11. Forget tuition fees

Your training is always fully funded by the Government or your employer for every level of apprenticeship. 

12. Employers of all sizes are onboard 

From massive firms to smaller niche firms, apprenticeships span all sectors … you could even approach your employer about enrolling you on a suitable apprenticeship or ask a new company if they might create one for you.

13. Awards for excellence 

Each year, the National Apprenticeship and Skills Awards spotlight the crème de la crème of employers, apprentices and training providers

14. Endless opportunities 

Tens of thousands of apprenticeship jobs are advertised at any given time; use the map[https://lcrbemore.co.uk/apprenticeship/] to find an opportunity near you in the Liverpool City Region 

15. Starting salaries 

Some Degree Apprenticeships pay £35,000 or more … that’s starting your career around the national average wage. The only way is up!

16. You’re protected

From day one of an apprenticeship, your rights as an employee are protected. 

17. Breaking the mould 

If you think outside the box or want to take the less-travelled road, one of these quirky apprenticeships[https://lcrbemore.co.uk/news/off-the-beaten-track-seven-unusual-apprenticeships/] might be a perfect choice for your next step.

18. Let’s celebrate

They’re so awesome that every year, there’s an entire week to honour Apprenticeships across the UK. In 2025, it starts today!

During this week, keep an eye out for exciting events, success stories, and opportunities near you. If you’re ready to make 2025 the year you rewrite your future, an apprenticeship might be just the start you need.