This week is National Apprenticeship Week: an annual celebration of apprenticeships across England.
It’s a chance to showcase the amazing opportunities that are available to you through professional apprenticeships, and learn more about the apprentice experience.
Here’s what some of our current apprentices had to say about their experiences.
David, 23 - Tech Consulting Degree Apprentice on Deloitte’s BrightStart programme(opens new window)
The apprenticeship is a great option for people, like me, who know what they want to do for a career. I knew I wanted to commit to the BrightStart programme when I learned about debt-free education with four years’ work experience in an industry I was really interested in. University gives you opportunities to explore, but that’s not the set path that everyone may want to take.
It’s easy to find a strong community at Deloitte. I’m part of the Black Network, the Rugby Team and I also join meetups hosted by Multiverse, the education provider for the apprenticeship scheme. On top of that, there’s a robust support system when you join the firm; I have a people lead for career guidance, a project mentor for guidance on projects, a university dean and a buddy to help me settle in.
Keira, 18 - Digital Business Accelerator at Allegis Group
I wanted to take ownership of my future and create the best life for myself. I wanted to gain experience earlier in my career, so I could navigate my main interests, passions and learn what drives me best.
For me, going to university wasn’t my preferred route because I knew it wouldn’t be where I could showcase my potential the most, I had so much to give. I wanted to be hands-on, and go for it.
I'd definitely recommend an apprenticeship. I've built up so many skills, I've built up my savings account, I've expanded my network and gained real experience.
Aymen, 19 - Digital Business Accelerator at UCL
I feel that as an apprentice, I am given the opportunity to embark upon rewarding and meaningful tasks and projects, and actually take a leading role.
I am constantly encouraged to push my ability to the max, and this allows me to accelerate my professional development, and add to my knowledge and experience. Something a traditional university degree would not simply allow.
As a young carer, I am given the flexibility to work remotely, which allows me to carry out those duties. I feel that an apprenticeship works for you, rather than a university degree where you have to work around the university.
Khadidja, 21, Digital Marketing Apprentice in Birmingham at The&Academy
I knew university was not where I wanted to go as far as a career.
I went to an open day in Birmingham. A Multiverse ambassador approached me with great enthusiasm and asked what I was looking for. My response was 'digital marketing' - they said ‘perfect’, and that’s how it started!
I've loved every minute of my apprenticeship so far and learnt from my coaches, my peers and my employer. It's been great to get this opportunity in Birmingham, which I've seen grow and more and more opportunities arrive here.
