Apprenticeships are a great way to gain valuable work experience whilst simultaneously developing valuable skills and knowledge. However, there are a lot of misconceptions about this mode of education that simply are not true! Below we explain and debunk some of these myths.

‘’Apprenticeships are for low achievers’’

Apprenticeships simply just offer an alternative, hands-on approach to learning compared to other types of further education, where you will be able to enter the sector you’re interested in straight away.

Apprenticeship opportunities can also be very competitive so employers will be looking to hire the best candidates – meaning you need to work hard to ensure you get on-the-job experience! Individuals also choosing to study an apprenticeship are expected to manage both working and studying at the same time, so apprentices therefore need to be ambitious and have a desire to develop the necessary skills to succeed.

‘’Apprenticeships are only for school leavers’’

Apprenticeships are open to anyone who is over the age of 16 – there is no upper age limit! An apprenticeship is a great option for those who are looking for a career change, those looking to boost their skills, or those who want to enter the labour market. Check out our Adult Apprenticeships page for more information.

‘’You can’t go to university with an apprenticeship qualification’’

Similar to A-Levels, with an apprenticeship you will receive UCAS points that you can use to apply to various university programmes with. You can also progress through the apprenticeship route with higher and degree level apprenticeships.

‘’Apprentices don’t get paid much’’

There are different rates of pay for apprentices, and the pay received will depend on your age and what year of the apprenticeship you’re in. Employers must pay their apprentices at least the minimum wage, however most apprentices at Milton Keynes College are paid more than this!

‘’Apprenticeships don’t offer good career routes’’

Many apprenticeship pathways can lead to degree level roles and can open as many opportunities as a degree. The majority of apprentices feel that their qualification has had a positive impact on their career, with 36% of higher apprentices reporting that they received a promotion after completing their apprenticeship.

Do you want to find out more about the apprenticeships that we offer here at MK College? Click here to discover more about the opportunities available to you.