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TTC and embarking on a course funded by apprenticeship levy

3 replies

Dreaminginpink · 04/07/2023 15:10

I've just turned 38 and me and my partner have been trying for our first baby (currently on cycle 6) and haven't had any luck so far. I had the opportunity at work to apply to study for a qualification that is funded by the apprenticeship levy and I have been accepted. The course would probably take around 2-3 years in total. Now I could have waited and applied in a future year but at this moment in time I have no idea if I can even get pregnant and I didn't want to waste the next two years thinking I should have just gone for it if I don't get pregnant. It will be a really good qualification that would help me to earn more money and progress my career.

I'm really panicking now because I feel like if I were to fall pregnant my employer would be very disappointed and would question why I embarked on this when I was planning a pregnancy. Obviously the major factor here is my age, I have a very limited time to try and get pregnant now, being in my late thirties and so waiting until I've finished the qualification isn't an option.

Should I back out of doing the qualification? I have already established by querying with the study organisation that if I were to get pregnant that a 'break in learning' would be granted and I could then pick up where I left off when I came back off maternity leave (which I would intend to do). I don't want to discuss with my employer as I feel its a very personal issue. Do I just start the apprenticeship and deal with it if it happens?

Its keeping me awake at night worrying about it, what do I do? 🙃

OP posts:
titchy · 04/07/2023 15:21

Absolutely start it! If you need to take maternity leave that's perfectly allowable.

Tippingadvice · 04/07/2023 15:21

@Dreaminginpink do the qualification. It’s a set timeline and they will have had people take Mat leave during apprenticeships before. Deferring the qualification can only lead to regret of not seizing the opportunity.

Remember you are not studying full time, there is no reason why you can’t take a break (short or long). You may find you can still do some study when on Mat leave, not immediately but when you feel ready.

I wish you well TTC but don’t put other parts of your life on hold.

DisplayPurposesOnly · 04/07/2023 15:24

It's quite normal for apprentices to go on maternity leave from their jobs (and therefore their studies), your training provider will understand.

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