A Level students considering apprenticeships
If you are doing A Levels you might be considering either an apprenticeship or university course when you finish.
An apprenticeship can be a good route if you want to get training for a specific job sector and be earning at the same time. There are all sorts of opportunities for fantastic apprenticeships developing all the time. Check for current vacancies to get some ideas.
However, if you are thinking of an apprenticeship there are a few things you need to consider:
- Apprenticeship vacancies for the summer after you finish your A Levels are advertised throughout the year and the closing dates can vary. Therefore, if you are undecided about whether to choose an apprenticeship or higher education path it is probably best to apply for higher education as well as look for apprenticeship vacancies. If you get an apprenticeship you can always decline your university offer.
- There are 40+ different job areas now offering Higher Apprenticeships, which are higher education level qualifications (Level 4+). Employers are asking for A Levels and other Level 3 qualifications as entry requirements. Search for vacancies using our apprenticeship search or at the gov.uk website and by looking at companies' websites or make speculative applications.
- Higher and degree apprenticeships are likely to be very competitive!
- If you do not have the relevant job-specific experience you might have to complete an Advanced Apprenticeship, even though these are the same level qualifications (Level 3) as A Levels - although you might be able to complete it quicker than a 16 year old.
- Not all sectors offer Higher Apprenticeship qualifications so make sure you check if they are available in your chosen sector.
- For some jobs a university degree is the only pathway e.g. doctor, dentist, vet, etc. and there is no apprenticeship pathway.