Apprenticeship vs Uni?

[shinyhappypeeps]

The last of my 3 DC is thinking of apprenticeship rather than uni when he finishes his A levels next year.....I didn’t go to uni - didn’t want to and worked gaining a commission in the Forces with good career progression, salary etc. I think his decision is right FOR HIM - he’s struggled academically all his life due to dyslexia but I can’t help feeling there’s still not enough information out there about reputable apprenticeships - he will get at least a BTEC Business qualification equivalent to an A level plus one more A level possibly but a low grade...so he’s not looking for plumbing/electrician courses (very valuable these are in their own right). Anyone’s DC had experience - good or bad of Apprenticeships? Good sitters welcome please - I think he’s feeling overwhelmed as all his cohort seem to be applying to uni. Tx

Good STEERS that should have said...

What is it he’s interested in doing for an apprenticeship?

business, finance, marketing are all options I think he would be interested in/do well at.

Take a look at the school leaver programmes offered by PWC, Grant Thornton, EY, Deloittes, KPMG, Smith & Williamson & BDO. Their school leaver programmes offer exactly the same training and career development as graduates. Your DC would simply qualify when he is 21 or 22 rather than with £40k plus of loans at age 25.

I have an apprentice joining my team next month (business administration) and also have just promoted one who has been with us 3 years to a relatively senior role. I think it’s a really fab way of getting an occupational based qualification and experience.

Thank you to both Hoghgyni and GrumpySwivelHead - interesting to see the "big names" supporting apprenticeships and also to hear the other side of how apprentices are welcomed/thought of in companies. i suppose that was my worry - that they may be thought of as second class citizens in the work place/cheap labour and good to hear that companies are looking at them from an unbiased perspective.

Would he consider the military? They have some amazing apprenticeships as do the police.

He has thought of military as he loves CCF at school, but more going through Officer training - which I don't think he is quite ready for emotionally or is mature enough for yet (both me and DH went through Officer training in RAF so know the ropes there). I didn't realise the Police did apprenticeships though - he has, in the past, mentioned an interest in the Police - thank you - will get him to take a look.