Futures for Business is supporting National Apprenticeship Week 2019!

The theme for National Apprenticeship Week this year is “Blaze a Trail”. At Futures, we believe that everyone we help is able to blaze a trail in their own life, community and career.

Where apprenticeships might once have been considered exclusive to vocational career paths – and the young people setting out on them, they can now open the door to a wealth of different careers. This allows people of all ages and from a variety of backgrounds to develop news skills. All while earning an income and putting those skills into practice straight away.

This is demonstrated by Fiona, who is currently an apprentice working at Hopkinson in Station Street. Fiona decided to undertake an apprenticeship after completing her university course. While many view apprenticeships as being solely available to those who have just left school, Fiona is challenging that misconception and using the opportunity to put her skills into practice in real working scenarios to progress her career and build upon the skills she has learned during her education.

Meanwhile, the notion that apprenticeships are only for school leavers or those under that age of 19 is being challenged. According to data released from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) this year, the number of people aged over 25 when starting an apprenticeship during 2018 accounted for more than half (52%) of all new apprenticeships during the year.

While apprenticeships are a great way for young people who are new to work to get a head start in their career, they are also becoming a popular way for people who are already established in their career to build upon their existing experiences and skills to reach new heights.

In fact, Futures’ very own Marketing and Communications Manager, Anna, is currently undertaking an apprenticeship in Leadership and Management.

“I was excited by the opportunity to start the leadership and management apprenticeship. I’ve been a manager for around 6 years, and although I feel I have significant skills, it’s primarily based on instinct and what I’ve learnt from those who’ve managed me.

I’m now being provided with the tools and knowledge to better support and lead the business’ marketing and communications work.”

If you’re interested in doing an apprenticeship, you can see our current vacancies here. Alternatively, if you want to find out more about how Futures can help your business hire an apprentice, please get in touch.