What happens after an apprenticeship?
An apprenticeship can be a hugely positive experience. It allows you to gain experience of the workplace, learn new skills and benefit from the knowledge of an accomplished mentor. While it's a great first step into a new career, your time as an apprentice will pass quickly. It's important to know your options so you can make an informed decision about the next steps.
Remain with your employer in a new role
The perfect end to an apprenticeship is the offer of a full time job with the opportunity to build upon the skills you have learned and transform them into a new career. This will provide added security, but outside the framework of an apprenticeship, it will also mean more responsibility. The best workplaces will support their staff and help them develop along a set career pathway, providing clear goals to help you reach your potential.
Find a different job
Following your apprenticeship, you are under no obligation to stay with the company, just as they are under no obligation to offer you a full time job. There are potentially a number of companies who will be looking to employ and develop graduate apprentices. You can apply for a job directly and the government offer a job search, which offers a wide range of opportunities. Recruitment agencies can also be helpful in matching talented individuals with those looking for new recruits.
Take on another apprenticeship
An apprenticeship is just the first step on the career ladder and you might feel that further opportunities at a higher level would be beneficial to your career. Your training provider may be able to help place you in a new apprenticeship or advise you on the next steps to take.
Pursue further education
During an apprenticeship, you may discover that you value academic learning and wish to pursue further education. There are a number of options open to you, from college courses to university degrees. In order to get into further education, you'll have to register and apply through UCAS. This can be an intimidating prospect but they have systems in place to advise you on the most suitable courses and to help with the application process. UCAS take both your experience and your qualifications into account, and you will have gained UCAS points through your apprenticeship.
Prepare for something new
There is a chance that after an apprenticeship, you may realise you do not want to pursue the career path it offers. Through your apprenticeship you will have gained many transferrable skills that will provide an added edge in the jobs market. Before you make your next move, it's best to work out exactly what you want to do. You may seek out careers advice and the National Careers Service is a good place to start. They provide a wide range of advice and guidance to help you in the job market, from creating a good CV to improving your interview technique.
Find out more about the benefits of apprenticeships at GTG.