There are many reasons why you might want to consider an apprenticeship over college. Perhaps you can’t afford further education fees, or you might want to gain work experience instead of spending two - three years studying something that you may not even end up using in your career. Apprenticeships are a great alternative to just getting a qualification because they combine on-the-job training with academic knowledge and skills. They also give you a head start in your chosen industry, which is why so many people choose an apprenticeship over college or further education. Are you thinking about enrolling in an apprenticeship program or another form of education? If so, you must understand the pros and cons of each schooling option before making a final decision. This article will explain 10 reasons why an apprenticeship is a better option than going to college for young people. Especially when it comes to childcare.

1. You can gain real-world experience in a nursery setting while studying

The first advantage of apprenticeships over college is that you can gain real-world experiences while studying. While you’re in college, you’re mostly studying theory, like theories and concepts in your chosen field of study. This knowledge is important, but it doesn’t give you a realistic idea of what your day-to-day job will be like. When you choose to study an apprenticeship, you can spend your days working in a nursery environment with the children. You can gain real-world experience working with children, which you won’t be able to do if you spend your time at college. No matter what career path you choose after the completion of your apprenticeship, you’ll be better prepared than if you’d gone to college.

2. You can get paid while you learn

Another advantage of choosing an apprenticeship over college is that you can get paid while you learn. Many apprenticeships are paid positions, while most college education programs are not. If you’re taking out student loans to pay for further education, you’ll need to find a way to pay those loans back after graduation. In some cases, it can take over a decade to pay off the full amount of student debt. When you choose to do an apprenticeship, you can get paid while you gain experience, like many training providers we help to get you a job in Childcare. Depending on your apprenticeship program, you may also be able to earn a monetary bonus once you finish your training.

3. You can start doing what you love

The next advantage of apprenticeships over college is that you can start doing what you love as you learn. With college, you may be required to take a job that you do not want to do just to make ends meet. With apprenticeships, on the other hand, you will be in the nursery from day one. When you graduate from an apprenticeship program, you may even carry on with the same employer the very next day. With a college qualification, you may be required to wait around for weeks before you find a job. You may also find it challenging to find employment in your desired field of study.

4. Apprentices earn competitive salaries

The next advantage of doing an apprenticeship over college is that apprentices earn competitive salaries. While you’re in college, your salary is likely very low. It’s also important to remember that you may not earn any money at all during your time at college. You might be a full-time student, but this doesn’t mean that you’re being paid a full-time salary. Apprentices, on the other hand, are often paid a competitive salary while they’re training. You can start earning the salary you deserve right away, which can help you start saving or partying more than if you’d gone to college. It can take over a decade to pay off student debt, which can be extremely challenging if you’re struggling to make ends. Given that you will have 2 or more years of experience with an apprenticeship your earning potential could be better as well.

5. Your workplace training is provided

The next advantage of apprenticeships over college is that your workplace training is provided. If you go to college, you’ll likely be required to find an internship in your field of study. This could take you weeks or even months to find, and it could also be challenging to find one that pays. This can be avoided when you do an apprenticeship, either your employer will help you find the training you need, or your training provider will find you the employment you need to finish your apprenticeship program.

6. There’s no need to pay for an apprenticeship training

Another advantage of doing an apprenticeship instead of going to college is that there’s no need to pay for your apprenticeship training. While you’re in college, you’ll likely have to pay for textbooks, school supplies, transportation, and living expenses. You may also have to pay for college tuition, which is something that apprentices don’t have to worry about. While some apprenticeship programs do charge a small fee, it’s usually covered by the employer and nowhere near the cost of tuition for further education. You can graduate from an apprenticeship program debt-free, which is less likely to happen if you go to college.

7. It’s a recognised industry qualification you need for a childcare career

Another advantage of doing an apprenticeship over college is that it’s a recognised industry qualification. With a college diploma, you’ll likely be required to sit in many classrooms listening to factual lectures. If you decide to go on to do an apprenticeship, however, you can earn the same certification and immediately start working in your industry. You may have to take exams at the end, but by then you will have all the hands-on knowledge and experience you will need, saving you a lot of time and money.

8. There are a wide variety of careers to go on to if you chose.

The next advantage of choosing an apprenticeship over college is that there are a wide variety of careers to go on to if you chose. With a college diploma, you’ll likely choose one career path and stay in that field throughout your lifetime. If you do an apprenticeship, however, you can go on to do a variety of different things once you complete your program. You can work in childcare, social work, paediatric nursing and a variety of other fields. Regardless of the career path you choose after your apprenticeship, you’ll have at least 2 years of real-world experience over college graduates.

9. There is no need to go into debt with an Apprenticeship

The last advantage of choosing an apprenticeship over college is that there is no need to go into debt with an apprenticeship. While many universities offer free tuition, it’s important to remember that you’ll also need to cover the cost of living. You may also need to pay for books and other school supplies, which can add up quickly. With an apprenticeship, you can graduate debt-free. You’ll earn a monthly income while you train, and your employer will often provide your equipment, uniform or any safety clothing you may need. It’s important to remember that you might need to pay for some things out of your own pocket, though e.g. bus fare to get to work.

     10. Grow your network

As an apprentice, you have the opportunity to meet and connect with a wide range of people who have relevant connections to your chosen industry. Not only can this include the people you work with but also connecting with other apprentices. Connecting with like-minded individuals who have similar interests and passions can make you feel a part of a supportive community. Making connections is very beneficial and can help you to develop further in your profession.

Conclusion

When you’re choosing between an apprenticeship and college, it’s important to understand the advantages of each schooling option. Apprenticeships are a great alternative to going to college because they give you real-world experience while you earn an industry qualification that allows you to go straight to work in your field. If you’re a young person who is unsure of what to do after school, an apprenticeship may be the best decision for you. Understand the advantages of an apprenticeship over college before making a final decision.

If you want to find out more about what we do and how we can help you to achieve your career goal in the childcare sector, contact us today.