Let's talk about apprenticeships
By Rob Elliott, Finance Apprentice, EngineeringUK
During National Apprentice Week we chat to EngineeeringUK’s finance apprentice, 21 year-old Rob Elliott, working towards an AAT Level 3 Advanced Diploma in Accounting – Basic Bookkeeping.
How did your apprenticeship with EngineeeringUK come about? And how long is it for?
I was on a gap year and had made the decision to not go to university. After a few weeks of searching, I landed this apprenticeship in June 2022 to begin my bookkeeping/ accounting qualification. This level I’m doing is for 18 months and ends in July.
What has been the best thing about your apprenticeship so far?
Stepping outside my comfort zone and developing an array of new skills. It has encouraged me to communicate and challenge myself in the workplace and to push myself, not just as an individual, but as part of a team.
What are the benefits of doing an apprenticeship for people starting their careers?
An apprenticeship is a great way to learn practically on the job whilst also studying for qualifications at the same time.
What is your view of apprenticeships? Do you think many young people worry about the financial cost of university?
Personally, I believe that apprenticeships are more beneficial than university – no debt, learning on the job and the experience prepares you for your career in the real world.
For me, the apprenticeship route was the right decision, it suits my skills set and helped me to develop as an individual in the professional world.
Do you think many young people – your peers for example – know enough about apprenticeships? If not, what do you think would help promote apprenticeships, especially in the engineering and technology sector, to young people?
In my group, many of us didn’t attend university and opted for the apprenticeship route. However, my sixth form didn’t promote apprenticeships as they pushed for university – but I believe that targeting the 16 to 18 age group at school will push more people into apprenticeships.
What would you say to a young person thinking about doing an apprenticeship?
An apprenticeship is a great way to step out into the bigger world with a job, whilst studying on the job training. I highly encourage more people to take on the apprenticeship schemes that are being offered as it’s a great opportunity to develop yourself.
Find out more about apprenticeships by visiting National Apprentice Week.
Personally, I believe that apprenticeships are more beneficial than university – no debt, learning on the job and the experience prepares you for your career in the real world.
— Rob Elliott, Finance Apprentice, EngineeringUK
