Just like trench coats and shoulder pads – we kid you not – apprenticeships are back in vogue.
However, unlike the Eighties fashion reboot that began and ended just as quickly, apprenticeships will stick around for much longer.
No longer seen as the poor relation to studying at university for a degree, they’re attracting more young people keen to continue their education while earning at the same time.
Changing perceptions have also helped. No longer does the word apprentice conjure up images of wee Davey, clad in overalls with plunger in hand, aspiring to be a plumber’s mate.
Now it’s more likely to be a sharp-suited youngster sitting at a computer.
More businesses are getting behind apprenticeships, too, with bosses recognising a good return on their investment – employees with all the right skills who can be immediately productive in the workplace.
That’s reflected here at s1jobs where more and more apprenticeship vacancies are becoming available, especially in engineering.
In fact, Skills Development Scotland (SDS) has announced 3500 new-style apprenticeship places will be created in 2018: this includes 2600 foundation apprenticeships for pupils and 900 graduate apprenticeships.
SDS also plans to deliver 30,000 new apprenticeships by 2020.
During this year’s Scottish Apprenticeship Week, being held from March 5 – 9th, there are events planned across the country to help young people benefit from apprenticeship employment opportunities. These range from Degree Apprenticeships to Traineeships and Advanced to Higher Apprenticeships.
Engineering apprenticeships are some of the most sought-after in all fields, including mechanical, aeronautical, electrical, civil, automotive and telecoms.
It’s no wonder! As well as quality training, trainee engineers are in the money. A typical starting salary can be around £12,000, with degree apprenticeships reaching up to £20,000.
But despite what Jessie J sings, we know it’s not all about the money . . . so what are the other benefits?
1. It’s a fast route into the industry. Apprentices are there to get practical and relevant experience so it’s proper work from the start. Once qualified, you’re already on the career ladder.
2. Earn while you learn. You might start on a basic wage but you’re still getting paid to learn and there’s no £30,000 of student debt around your neck for 20 years.
3. It’s a way to further study. You can choose from three levels of apprenticeship: Foundation level for school pupils, a Modern Apprentice for over 16’s and a Graduate Level apprenticeship which leads to a degree.
4. You have time on your side. You’re joining the working world years ahead of graduates, which can be a leg-up on the career and salary ladder.
5. It’s varied. Your time is split between the workplace and college or university, which makes for a good work/life balance. You get to experience life as a student but won’t be struggling to buy chips ’n’ cheese on a Friday night.
6. Guidance and support. Being surrounded by experienced professionals means there’s always someone to watch and learn from.
For all the latest Engineering vacancies and apprenticeship opportunities visit s1jobs.com