Considering applying for a Modern Apprenticeship but not sure it’s for you? Here’s a run-down of some of the benefits to help you make your mind up:
Earn a wage
High on the list must be the fact that you’ll earn a wage. You’ll also avoid having to rely on bursaries, grants and student loans etc to finance your studies.
Hands-on learning
If classrooms and textbooks have never really been your thing, you’ll enjoy the practical, hands-on learning that a Modern Apprenticeship offers. Of course, you will still need to get to grips with theory however most of your learning will actually take place doing the job that you’re training for.
You’ll hit the ground running at the end of your training
Once you’ve completed your apprenticeship, you’ll have the knowledge and importantly the skills and experience to ensure you’re ‘work ready’. Ensuring you’re extremely popular with both your current employer and future employers.
You won’t study for years to find out you’ve made the wrong career choice
Imagine working your socks off for four years to get what you think is your dream job – only to find out you hate it. With a Modern Apprenticeship, you’ll know pretty early on whether or not this is the career for you.
Double the support
Modern Apprentices have lots of people in their corner; including their employer and the College. Double the support = double the chance of success.
Student life
With a Modern Apprenticeship, you’ll also get all the perks of student life – including membership of the Student Association and student discounts. You’ll also be able to access the College’s Learning Resource Centres and support services – handy if you need extra help with your learning or advice on financial or personal issues.
Sounding good? Here are a few different ways to get on an MA programme:
• The College frequently recruits for leading local and national companies throughout the year - look out for vacancies being advertised on our website and through schools, careers offices or the media. We currently have live vacancies for Modern Apprenticeships in Engineering and Life Sciences – click here to apply.
• The most common way is to find an employer who is willing to take you on and put you through an apprenticeship. Why not try getting in touch with a few companies you would be interested in working with? If you’re struggling call the College and we may be able to point you in the right direction.
• Or you may already have secured a job. If this is the case, you should speak to your employer to see if they would be happy to put you through an MA programme and provide you with support throughout your apprenticeship.
• Finally, another popular way to apply for an MA is through the Sector Skills Councils. They are responsible for developing and maintaining MA frameworks and national standards. They also promote Modern Apprenticeships and actively encourage the recruitment of apprentices amongst employers. Sector Skills Councils also often have vacancies advertised on their websites. CITB and ECITB are two websites you might want to check out.
For further information, please call 01324 403001 or email maonlineapplications@forthvalley.ac.uk