Parental Guide to Apprenticeships
At Sixth Form, we are proud to support students in exploring a wide range of post-18 pathways, including apprenticeships, which offer an excellent alternative to university for many young people. Apprenticeships combine paid work with structured training, allowing students to gain valuable qualifications and experience while earning a salary.
What Is an Apprenticeship?
An apprenticeship is a job with training. Apprentices work for an employer while studying towards a recognised qualification, often at college or through a training provider. Programmes range from intermediate to degree-level apprenticeships, and are available in sectors such as engineering, healthcare, law, IT, finance, and more.
How We Support Students
We ensure that every student considering an apprenticeship is fully supported throughout the process:
- Apprenticeship Information Sessions – we provide clear guidance on how apprenticeships work, what to expect, and how to apply
- Careers Advice – our dedicated careers team offers one-to-one support to help students identify suitable opportunities
- Application Support – from CV writing to interview preparation, we help students present themselves confidently to employers
- Access to Opportunities – we share live apprenticeship vacancies and help students navigate platforms like the National Apprenticeship Service
- Ongoing Mentoring – students receive continued support even after securing an apprenticeship, ensuring a smooth transition into the workplace
How Parents Can Help
Parents play a key role in helping students make informed decisions. You can support by:
- Encouraging your child to explore different career paths
- Attending apprenticeship events or open days with them
- Helping them stay organised with applications and deadlines
- Talking positively about vocational routes as equal to university
Key Points to Remember
- Apprenticeships are competitive, so early preparation is essential
- They offer debt-free qualifications and real-world experience
- Many apprentices go on to secure permanent roles or progress to higher-level study
Final Thought
At our Sixth Form, we believe in empowering every student to find the path that’s right for them. Whether they choose university, an apprenticeship, or another route, we are here to guide, support, and celebrate their journey.
