Eight questions answered by unis and colleges offering degree apprenticeships

Friday 10 July 2020, UCAS advice

by UCAS

Eight questions answered by unis and colleges offering degree apprenticeships

UCAS

1. What are the key features and aptitudes of successful applicants? 

Willingness to work hard, because you will be studying and doing a full-time job, as well as confident and mature to handle their responsibilities in the workplace. Academically, they can have different types of qualifications. 

2. What are the biggest challenges for young people doing an Apprenticeship? 

Just making enough time to do everything in the day calls for great time management skills. 

3. What advice would you give to students who are considering an apprenticeship but aren’t sure if it’s for them? 

Try to get some work experience in the sector you’re interested in. Go to university and college open days and talk to the people who are delivering the programmes to find out more. There is a range of different study options, so think about what would suit your learning style. If you really aren’t right for it, don’t do it. Traditional degrees are very valuable and give people time to explore different options. 

4. What are the top three things you look for in an application? 

Enthusiasm for the subject. Academic ability so we don’t set up applicants to fail. And, finally, the applicant’s character. This is really important – they need to be mature enough to enter the workplace, and dedicated enough to work and study at the same time. 

5. What do you consider when deciding whether or not to interview applicants? 

They have to pass some basic grade thresholds, and online tests for numerical skills, aptitude, and attitudes. 

6. What tips would you give applicants for their interviews? 

Remember you are being interviewed to be an employee, as well as a student. You need to present yourself as a person who can contribute in a real job. So, find out as much as you can about the company and the role, so you can ask intelligent questions. 

7. Where can students get support when they are doing an apprenticeship? 

The employer will provide all the normal HR type support, as well as mentoring and line management, and input on career development in the company. Higher education providers will provide support with learning development and all the normal pastoral care, information, and advice that any other student would get. 

8. What’s your top tip for young people thinking about applying for an apprenticeship? 

Go for it! It’s a really great opportunity that has the potential to set you up well for the rest of your life. 

 

Keen to find out more? Head to ucas.com/apprenticeships