Why university isn’t the only route to a successful career

The misconception that university is the only path into a successful career is still a common attitude among students today. While many are well adapted to the late study nights, early morning lectures, student debts, living far away from home – many are not! University does indeed offer an exceptional learning environment for those suited to the constant demands of study and exams. However, an apprenticeship offers a practical alternative for the young minds with a desire to get hands-on. If you want to combine learning, earning and working, then an apprenticeship could be the right path for you.

Apprenticeships and traineeships offer real learning, preparing real people for the real world. They give school or college leavers with little work experience an opportunity to work towards nationally-recognised qualifications in a variety industries including business, engineering, IT and hospitality just to name a few. Apprenticeships are beneficial not only in the short-term but also in the long-term with 90% of apprentices staying in employment after concluding their apprenticeship. Working and learning in such an environment boosts confidence and provides students with the experience necessary to fulfil a lifelong career.

Applying to an apprenticeship through ACT could help you optimize all of the benefits of an apprenticeships. ACT has connections with over 700 employers such as Barclays, NatWest, and the NHS which they work closely with to connect them with young, passionate apprentices. Rated as excellent by 89% of their learners, ACT continues to help over 6500 young Welsh people achieve their career ambition through fully-funded apprenticeships. 

ACT Apprentices achieve real results. Twenty-two year old Rebecca Collins kick-started her career in accounts managing and says that the work experience provided by ACT has boosted her confidence and competence massively: “I never thought I’d get to where I am now”. Unlike many of her friends, Rebecca doesn’t have a mountain of student loan to pay back. Instead she earns an excellent wage for someone of her age. As an apprentice with ACT you could earn as much as £25,000 per annum, as opposed to paying back £53,330 worth of debt from a three-year university degree. Also in contrast to her university enrolled friends, Rebecca was able to start her apprenticeship at a time that suited her, and wasn’t tied to September.

Today, over 850, 000 young people are currently earning and learning on an apprenticeship – and it is quite clear why so many bright young minds are making this choice. If you are aged between 16-24, living in Wales and looking for an alternative to university, then apply now and take control of your future.