Students Rapidly Secure Positions in Degree Apprenticeship Programs
For students who are certain of their career sector, apprenticeships present a debt-free alternative to university. These structured programmes combine work and study, allowing apprentices to earn a salary while achieving a full bachelor's degree or equivalent qualification.
Degree level apprenticeships provide numerous benefits. Apprentices gain practical work experience with prestigious employers, receive mentorship, and have future job prospects, often with a high chance of permanent employment after completion.
To secure a degree apprenticeship, requirements typically include having Level 3 qualifications such as A-levels (usually three A-levels) or equivalent certifications like BTEC Nationals, along with relevant work experience and sufficient GCSE grades (typically five GCSEs grades 9-4). Apprentices must be aged 16 or over, and higher-level apprenticeships require progression through earlier apprenticeship levels or equivalent qualifications.
Elijah Gatewood-Skeete, for example, was offered a place on a highly competitive degree apprenticeship with Rolls Royce. His apprenticeship involves combining academic study (earning a recognized degree) with paid work experience at Rolls Royce, a leading engineering company. Elijah must dedicate himself to both on-the-job duties and off-the-job learning, typically one day per week reserved for study or training off the job. The benefits include mentorship from experienced professionals, exposure to cutting-edge engineering projects, and a competitive salary.
Notre Dame's students are increasingly progressing to higher and degree level apprenticeships. Offers have been made for Digital and Technology Solutions, Regeneration Officer, Quantity Surveying, Digital, Level 7 Solicitor, Digital and Marketing, Level 7 Accountancy, Chartered Management, and Engineering degree apprenticeships with various companies. Some students even start on a level 3 apprenticeship (equivalent to A-levels) and are supported by their company to work their way up to degree level.
The college Careers Department offers a bespoke programme of information, advice, and guidance for students not planning to attend a traditional university. Notre Dame's students are supported by their teachers and the college Careers Department in pursuing apprenticeships. Elijah Gatewood-Skeete, for instance, attended a Zoom interview for his apprenticeship, presenting his A-level Product Design portfolio.
In summary, degree level apprenticeships like Rolls Royce’s provide a structured, employer-supported pathway to a university degree with practical experience, requiring solid academic foundations and offering strong career prospects post-completion. These programmes are becoming increasingly popular among Notre Dame's students, providing an alternative route to higher education and future success.
- Degree level apprenticeships, such as the one Elijah Gatewood-Skeete participated in with Rolls Royce, offer students the opportunity to earn a recognized degree while gaining practical work experience, receiving mentorship, and securing future job prospects.
- Apprenticeships, like those offered to Notre Dame's students in fields such as Digital and Technology Solutions, Quantity Surveying, and Engineering, often involve a combination of work and study, with a focus on both hands-on experience and skills training.
- As these apprenticeships can lead to high paying jobs and provide a debt-free alternative to university, they are becoming increasingly popular among students seeking career development and job-search opportunities in various industries, including finance and education-and-self-development.
