'Apprenticeships are only for school leavers'
There is a misconception that apprenticeships are just for school leavers, however this is no longer the case because of Government changes to the apprenticeship scheme, which include the removal of an upper age limit and extending the level of apprenticeships up to degree and masters.
So, what is an apprenticeship?
An apprenticeship is a way for young people as well as adult learners to earn while they learn in a real job, gaining a valued qualification whilst helping to improve their prospects.
There are different levels of apprenticeships with the length of your course depending on your existing experience, qualifications, and your choice of job role.
These various levels of apprenticeships mean that you can enter at a level that is right for you and progress in your career as you choose to move to the next level:
- Intermediate level 2 - the equivalent of 5 GCSE passes at grade 9-4 (A*-C)
- Advanced level 3 - the equivalent of 2 A-level passes, Level 3 Diploma or International Baccalaureate
- Higher levels 4, 5, 6 and 7 - the equivalent of a Foundation Degree and above
- Degree level 6 and 7 - the equivalent of a Bachelors or Masters degree
We are excited to offer a range of vocational qualifications across projects for internal and external applicants.
Like our Community Liaison Officer, Sabrina Robertson who has used the apprenticeship programme to continue upskilling.
How did you hear about the McLaren Apprenticeship Programme and what made you choose the apprenticeship route?
I first heard about apprenticeships at McLaren during the 2021 annual conference meeting, where Sam Bolton initiated the idea of apprenticeships, inviting her colleagues to consider their career progress and research apprenticeships that aligned with their current position.
The apprenticeship has allowed me to gain confidence and proficiency in my role. The opportunity to network and be mentored by industry leads has been fundamental to my progression, not to mention the benefits of the peer-to-peer support providing me with a unique network of CR&S colleagues to learn from and connect with.
What made you choose Construction and what was it like joining the team and now working with them?
Construction is one of the very few industries where you can learn various skills simultaneously, the job progression opportunities are endless as I’ve seen with countless people who have progressed from trades to senior positions. ‘No one day is the same’ which can make it an interesting industry to work in.
Like with most introductions, I was slightly nervous, but my coach was outstanding and instantly encouraged us all to network and introduce ourselves, therefore that helped to make me feel more comfortable. I proactively engage with all the team discussions and have been a part of some team challenges that have helped the team bond. Mostly, I feel my input has been valued and benefited the team.
What do you enjoy most about your Apprenticeship and what are some of the benefits?
The learning experience is amazing, and the opportunity to share your industry experience and learn from peers is second to none, we are all embarking on a learning journey together and to witness everyone grow in confidence and progress in their careers is encouraging.
Simply ‘you earn while you learn’ full-time academy such as a university embeds the knowledge without the practice in most cases, whereas with an apprenticeship the practical and theory come hand in hand which is great for Kinaesthetic learners like me.
What does Career progression look like for you?
Career progression to me means ‘endless future possibilities’.
