Graduate apprenticeships are a type of apprenticeship that allows individuals to gain a higher education qualification while also working and gaining on-the-job experience. These apprenticeships are typically available at the level of a bachelor's or master's degree and are aimed at individuals who have completed their secondary education and are looking to further their education while also gaining work experience.
The duration of a graduate apprenticeship can vary depending on the specific program and level of study, but typically range from two to four years. During this time, the apprentice will spend a significant amount of time working with an employer, learning the skills and knowledge required for their chosen profession, as well as attending college or university to complete the academic component of their apprenticeship.
Graduate apprenticeships in the UK are currently available in a variety of fields, including engineering, business, digital technology, healthcare, and more. These apprenticeships are funded by the UK government and are available to individuals of all ages and backgrounds.
Graduate apprenticeships can provide a valuable pathway for individuals to gain both academic qualifications and practical work experience, which can greatly enhance their employability and career prospects. Additionally, the cost of these apprenticeships is typically covered by the employer, meaning that individuals can avoid the burden of student loans and debt associated with traditional higher education.
Many companies in the UK offer graduate apprenticeships across a range of industries. Some of the companies that recruit graduate apprenticeships in the UK include:
- Jaguar Land Rover - offers graduate apprenticeships in engineering, manufacturing, and business.
- PwC - offers graduate apprenticeships in technology, business, and consulting.
- IBM - offers graduate apprenticeships in digital technology and business.
- BAE Systems - offers graduate apprenticeships in engineering, manufacturing, and business.
- BT - offers graduate apprenticeships in technology and business.
- GSK - offers graduate apprenticeships in science, technology, engineering, and manufacturing.
- EY - offers graduate apprenticeships in accounting, consulting, and business.
- Airbus - offers graduate apprenticeships in engineering, manufacturing, and business.
- Rolls-Royce - offers graduate apprenticeships in engineering, manufacturing, and business.
- Siemens - offers graduate apprenticeships in engineering, manufacturing, and technology.
These are just a few examples of the companies that offer graduate apprenticeships in the UK. There are many more employers across a range of industries that offer these programs. It is worth researching the specific industry you are interested in to find out which companies offer graduate apprenticeships in that field.
To become a graduate apprentice, there are several steps you can take:
- Research available apprenticeships: Research the types of graduate apprenticeships that are available and find one that suits your interests and career goals. The government's apprenticeship website (https://www.gov.uk/apply-apprenticeship) is a good place to start your search.
- Check the entry requirements: Each apprenticeship program will have its own entry requirements, which could include academic qualifications, work experience, or specific skills. Check the requirements carefully to ensure that you meet them before applying.
- Apply for the apprenticeship: Once you have identified an apprenticeship that you are interested in and meet the entry requirements for, you can apply for the program. This typically involves submitting an online application and potentially attending an interview or assessment.
- Secure an employer: Unlike traditional higher education programs, apprenticeships require you to have an employer who is willing to take you on as an apprentice. You may need to apply to multiple companies or organizations to secure an apprenticeship position.
- Start your apprenticeship: Once you have secured an employer and been accepted onto an apprenticeship program, you will begin your apprenticeship. This will involve a combination of on-the-job training and academic study at a college or university.
Complete your apprenticeship: Over the course of your apprenticeship, you will work towards completing the requirements for your academic qualification as well as building up practical work experience. Once you have successfully completed your apprenticeship, you will have a degree-level qualification and relevant work experience, which can greatly enhance your employability and career prospects.
Salaries for Graduate Apprenticeships
The salaries for graduate apprenticeships in the UK can vary depending on the specific apprenticeship, the employer, and the location. Generally, the starting salary for a graduate apprenticeship is around £18,000 to £25,000 per year, but this can increase as the apprentice gains more experience and progresses through the apprenticeship program.
Some employers may pay higher salaries to attract top talent and may also offer additional benefits such as healthcare, pension contributions, and paid time off. In some cases, the salary for a graduate apprenticeship may also be higher if the apprenticeship is in a high-demand field such as engineering or technology.
It is important to note that apprenticeships in the UK are structured differently than traditional university programs, and the employer typically covers the cost of tuition and training. Therefore, the salary for a graduate apprentice is intended to provide a living wage while also allowing the apprentice to gain valuable work experience and a degree-level qualification.