The Truth About Apprenticeships

Reflecting on National Apprenticeship Week

At Zenith, we take huge pride in our apprenticeship programme. We’re one of Yorkshire’s largest recruiters and as a business, we understand the part apprentices play in our success. Our programme has gone from strength to strength, winning a Princess Royal Training Award in 2023 and recently hiring the largest apprenticeship cohort in the company’s 35-year history.

We work hard to ensure everyone training with us is given the right skillset, experience and knowledge to set them up for working life – both now and in future roles.

Knowing what’s right for you

To support Zenith’s period of growth, in the last two years we’ve reached out to around 22,000 students across the region, building our apprenticeship programme through partnerships with local schools and attending educational events. Everywhere we go, there seems to be confusion around apprenticeships – what are they and why should they be chosen over university?

Often university is seen as the most ‘obvious’ route and while it’s undoubtedly a path which suits some, for some vocations, there are better and more ‘hands on’ ways to learn. Plus, with the average university debt now reaching a record high £45,000, isn’t it time we look at alternative options to ensure our future generations aren’t being locked into financial difficulties before they start work?

When I left sixth form, I, like many others in a similar position, was pushed into university – there was no guidance and no mention of an apprenticeship route. Instead, I went through the motions, graduated, entirely confused about my next career step. I desperately needed that mentorship to highlight my skills and point me in the direction. Having a programme which enables us to support Zenith’s apprentices as they start their early careers is incredibly rewarding.” - Nick Galicia, Zenith People Team

Likewise, it’s important to note that apprenticeships are not restricted to school leavers. At Zenith we firmly believe in lifelong learning, it’s part of our People Promise, and apprenticeships are an ideal way to change careers, being able to learn and develop the skills needed for a new role, whilst earning.

Helping apprentices to thrive

To help apprentices become the best version of themselves we have implemented a framework of support initiatives and training programmes. From working with local schools to make students aware about apprenticeships, hosting interview practice sessions, to providing regular interactive training and skills workshops for our own apprentices, we aim to give those working with us all the knowledge they need, while developing their own skills to help them thrive – whether they join an apprenticeship scheme or not.

“My apprenticeship has provided me with a clear path for learning outside the traditional classroom, giving me a head start in my career that will continue to pay dividends. - Tyler Smith, studying Digital User Experience (UX) Level 6 Degree Apprenticeship

Every apprentice we hire is given a platform to make an impact on operations at Zenith. We only have to look back at last week’s National Apprenticeship Week, where we worked with our apprentices to host a week-long series of events, to see how they are making the most of their opportunities.

What can we all do to make a difference?

Unsurprisingly, we’re only just beginning to learn the true value of apprenticeships, but it’s clear the appetite is there. According to 2023 application figures, UCAS highlighted that 40% of students interested in undergraduate study were also interested in apprenticeship options – a 180% increase since 2021.

And, on the other side, with the age of retirement getting later and later, the skills we learnt in our early career may not serve us through to the point we retire. Apprenticeships actively encourages a culture where continual learning can benefit both the individual and society.

As business leaders we must communicate and learn from each other to:

1) Understand the bigger picture 💡

There’s a skills shortage impacting the UK, and the gap can be plugged by apprentices, young and mature. However, not all will be work ready straight away. We must show patience and show them the ropes. The more time leaders can put in in training apprentices, the more the person will get out of their apprenticeship, and the more the business will benefit.

2) Realise Apprenticeships are just as valuable as university 👩‍🏫

There’s a perception that university is the best option for all young people, but that isn’t true. Yes, university might and will suit some people, but others prefer a more ‘hands on’ approach. Speak to young people about their options, including apprenticeships, rather than pushing a one size fits all narrative.

3) Give apprentices the opportunity to thrive 🌱 ➡️ 🌲

Apprentices need a platform where they can demonstrate their skills and talent and the opportunity to thrive. It’s our responsibility as leaders to bring the best out of them, whether that’s through mentoring, coaching or giving them increased responsibilities – all of which go a long way in giving them the platform to be the best versions of themselves.

“There's so much support here, everyone knows what you're doing and treats you as an equal. My line manager was like my rock throughout my apprenticeship, she was so understanding and helpful.” - Gasana Ali, Completed Business Administration Level 3

Apprentices and a great apprenticeship programme must not be underestimated - we all must work with young people to help them make the most of their apprenticeship.

Stuart Price, Chief People Officer - Zenith