If university isn’t at the top of your agenda, an apprenticeship scheme may be the very solution you’ve been looking for. Apprenticeships offer the flexibility and opportunity to develop a different skillset and get paid at the same time.
Apprentices mix-on-the-job training with classroom-based learning, which will provide the skills required to secure nationally recognised qualifications across a spectrum of different topics.
If you aren’t sure whether university is the right step for you, look no further. We’ve covered here a few reasons why you should consider applying for an apprenticeship.
Earn and learn
Apprenticeships enable you to earn a reasonable wage whilst learning on the job. Luke McAllister, Enterprise Rent-A-Car Billing Apprentice says: “My top consideration when deciding whether to go to university or start working after college was purely and simply cost. Apprenticeships are paid for by the company whereas university qualifications can put you in significant debt. You learn while on the job and at the end, you will have a national qualification and a technical certificate to evidence you understand the theory behind your chosen profession.”
Strengthen your CV
When it comes to arming yourself with transferable skills, an apprenticeship is a great option. In a recent survey, more than 80% of apprentices said that their career prospects had improved because of the soft and hard skills they learned during their apprenticeship. This is no coincidence. With an apprenticeship, you will have gained at least a year in your chosen industry, acquiring practical real life working skills that will add value to your CV.
Networking opportunities
Work for a large company like Enterprise Rent-A-Car and you will get the chance to speak to senior leaders as well as like-minded colleagues. You’ll be able to make a name for yourself and get the opportunity to keep up to speed with key business updates in your chosen field.
You should use this opportunity to find your feet in the world of work and explore the different functional areas of the company. This will enable you to get a better idea of the line of business you might want to explore as a long term career.
There’s no better way to see what an apprenticeship is really like, than by getting to know an apprentice. Here are Asha and Luke’s stories. They are both apprentices with Enterprise Rent-A-Car:
Luke: “Since starting with Enterprise Rent-A-Car, I feel much more confident communicating my ideas to colleagues in all levels of the business. My performance to date has recently resulted in a promotion. I strongly advise that you ask loads of questions to make sure you have a good understanding of the qualifications you’re working towards.
Also, try to explore school projects that match the criteria of the apprentice programme. If you need more experience, I would recommend doing volunteering work as this will help you develop the transferable skills needed to be successful as an apprentice at Enterprise.”
Asha: “Since starting at Enterprise Rent-A-Car, I have developed my communication, leadership, team working and analytical skills. Recently, I was involved in an apprenticeship fair which helped me develop my personal brand. My number one top tip for someone considering an apprenticeship would be to ask as many questions as possible.
There’s a really great support system at Enterprise. You’re encouraged to ask questions which made me feel much more confident within the business. With my experience so far, I would definitely recommend an apprenticeship.”
Do you already know what career you’ll be choosing after you finish college? An apprenticeship with Enterprise Rent-A-Car will give you the opportunity to earn while you learn.
If you choose to go into further education instead, make sure you return to browse all our placement, internship and graduate jobs available.
