Parents’ Guide to Apprenticeships

Publish Date: 2025-07-29

What is an Apprenticeship?

An apprenticeship is a real job with training. Apprentices earn a wage, gain valuable work experience, and study towards a nationally recognised qualification—all at the same time. Apprenticeships are available in hundreds of industries, from business and tech to healthcare, engineering, law, and beyond.

 

Why Consider an Apprenticeship?

  • Earn While You Learn: Apprentices are paid a salary from day one. No student debt!
  • Hands-On Experience: Your child works alongside experienced professionals, building skills employers want.
  • Recognised Qualifications: Apprenticeships lead to respected qualifications, from GCSE-equivalent up to degree level.
  • Career Progression: Many apprentices are offered permanent roles after finishing their programme.

 

How Can Parents Help?

  1. Start the Conversation

Talk to your child about their interests, strengths, and career ideas. Apprenticeships work best when matched to genuine interests.

  1. Explore Opportunities Together
  2. Use trusted websites like apprenticeships.co.uk to search for current vacancies. Many big-name employers offer fantastic programmes.
  3. Support with Applications
    • Help your child write a CV and cover letter (Young Professionals offers a free template—just ask!).
    • Encourage them to apply early and to several roles, as apprenticeships can be competitive.
  4. Prepare for Interviews

Practice common interview questions and help your child research the employer.

  1. Stay Positive
  2. Reassure your child that rejection is normal and part of the process. Encourage them to keep trying and learning.

 

 

Common Myths About Apprenticeships (Busted!)

  • “Apprenticeships are only for those who don’t want to go to university.”

Not true! Many apprenticeships are at degree level and beyond, and lots of high-achieving students choose this route.

 

  • “They’re just for trades like plumbing or construction.”

Apprenticeships exist in finance, law, digital, healthcare, media, and many more sectors.

 

  • “You don’t get proper qualifications.”

Apprenticeships offer industry-recognised qualifications, often up to degree or master’s level.

 

  • “Apprenticeships don’t lead to good jobs.”

Many apprentices go on to secure permanent roles and fast-track their careers.

 

 

Useful Resources

 

Top Tips for Parents

  • Stay involved: Your support makes a huge difference.
  • Be open-minded: University isn’t the only route to success.
  • Encourage resilience: The right opportunity will come with persistence.

 

Still have questions?

Reach out to the Young Professionals team at info@young-professionals.uk—we’re here to help!