National Apprenticeship Week 2023 Arrives at Practice to Progress

This week marks the return of National Apprenticeship Week (NAW! The week is an opportunity for the education and skills sector to celebrate the achievements of apprentices around the country and the positive impact they make to communities, businesses, and the wider economy.

National Apprenticeship Week (NAW) 2023 is the 16th annual week-long celebration of apprenticeships. The week brings together businesses and apprentices across the country to shine a light on the positive impact that apprenticeships make on individuals, businesses, and the wider economy.

The theme for National Apprenticeship Week 2023 is “Skills for Life”; reflecting on how apprenticeships can help individuals to develop the skills and knowledge required for a rewarding career, and businesses to develop a talented workforce that is equipped with future-ready skills.

Here at Practice to Progress, we have been looking at what Apprenticeship opportunities are available across policing to raise awareness of the broad spectrum of roles that make up our police forces.

So why become an Apprentice?

Apprenticeships can open doors for those who are unsure of their next steps

Apprenticeships are a type of work placement that combines practical training alongside on-the-job learning. Apprenticeships are legitimate jobs requiring employers to adhere to a legal employment contract covering the role salary, annual leave, and other key details.

There are many levels of apprenticeships, from school leavers to those upskilling their careers or who might have taken a new career direction. The qualifications available from an apprenticeship range from GCSE, A Level, or degrees equivalents.

What can apprentices expect from their apprenticeships?

Starting a new job as an apprentice is no different to any other type of employment, it’s important that you understand how things will work and what to expect. Prior to your first day, you will need to find out your contracted hours, job description, dress code, and where to go on your first day and take this opportunity to ask any further questions you may have.

Once you have started your new role, whilst working you will also be completing the study side of your apprenticeship.  Many employers will provide protected learning time for their apprentices so that you can complete the studies required as part of your apprenticeship.   

What are the benefits of being an Apprentice?

Apprenticeships are a great way for individuals to gain real-world experience and to develop a skill or expertise in a chosen field. Here are 5 key benefits of being an apprentice:

• Gain hands-on experience whilst learning from your colleagues daily and helping to expand your skillset and your professional development.
• Get paid to learn whilst earning a basic salary whilst gaining valuable experience, and benefit from annual leave and bank holidays.
• Gain industry-recognised qualifications to help you validate your skills and knowledge.
• Improve your employability, many employers ask for a minimum level of experience, and being an apprentice allows you to gain experience and skills you may otherwise not achieve.
• Enjoy student discounts, and be entitled to an NUS student discount card which offers deals across restaurants, shops, gyms, and more!
  
  

To learn more about being an apprentice and to hear real stories from those who have had successful apprenticeships, visit https://www.apprenticeships.gov.uk/apprentices/useful-resources-for-apprentices.