There are more options than ever for carving out a career path that will fulfill you and help you to achieve your long-term goals. Traditional university degrees, once considered the gold standard for career preparation, are no longer touted as the only option to a high-paying career. Increasingly, apprenticeships are emerging as a compelling alternative, offering a unique blend of hands-on experience and classroom learning.

At Lanes Group, we recognise the value of apprenticeships as a vital stepping stone for those looking to build a long-term career, particularly in the drainage sector. Our apprenticeship programmes are designed to equip you with the practical skills and industry-specific knowledge you need to thrive in this dynamic industry, all while providing the opportunity to earn as you learn.

The rising appeal of degree apprenticeships as an alternative to university

With tuition fees and student debt continuing to rise, many people are questioning whether attending university is the right path for them. A traditional college degree or bachelor’s degree is no longer the only path to a successful career, and apprenticeships are proving to be one of the most practical options.

Instead of relying on maintenance loans and other forms of debt to get through university life, apprenticeships allow you to save money and earn from day one. Apprentices earn a salary while gaining hands-on experience, building technical skills and a broader skill set that employers need. For school leavers, apprenticeships can provide a first job or entry-level position; for others, they offer a chance to build skills that support long-term career goals.

Apprenticeships can also be an alternative to a foundation degree, higher national diploma or even a higher apprenticeship, in some cases giving learners a recognised degree-equivalent qualification without the financial strain. Compared with online courses or an online class, apprenticeships offer a more direct route into your chosen profession because the training takes place in the workplace, not just in a classroom.

Some people see apprenticeships as a chance to avoid extra years of study or a gap year and instead move straight into paid work. Others choose them as a way to gain practical experience before starting their own business in the future. For many, the appeal lies in the balance: they provide a clear career path, financial stability and the opportunity to gain valuable experience while developing other skills that will stand out in a competitive job market.

But who benefits most from these programmes? Let’s explore the various groups for whom apprenticeships offer a distinct advantage:

Young people entering the workforce from college

For school leavers, apprenticeships offer a unique opportunity to gain practical experience and education simultaneously, making them highly employable in a competitive job market. Young people do not need to attend college if they choose apprenticeships, as these programmes provide practical, on-the-job training and lead directly to employment without the financial strain of student loans.

Career changers looking to build new skills

Apprenticeships are not just for young people entering the workforce for the first time; they are also an excellent option for those looking to change careers. For individuals seeking a fresh start in a new industry, apprenticeships and further education provide structured and cost-effective ways to gain the necessary skills and qualifications without the need for a lengthy return to traditional academic routes.

For career changers, the ability to earn while retraining is far superior to enrolling onto a university course. Once you get used to earning a living and adapt to a certain lifestyle, you are less likely to want to go back to having to take part-time work in an unrelated field to earn while you study. Fortunately, apprenticeships support financial stability as they allow apprentices to support themselves (and their families) while acquiring new skills. This practical approach can make the transition into a new role smoother and more straightforward, particularly in industries like drainage, where hands-on experience is highly valued.

Those facing barriers to employment

Apprenticeships can be a lifeline for individuals who face barriers to traditional employment routes. Whether due to a lack of formal qualifications, long-term unemployment or other personal circumstances, some people may find it challenging to access job opportunities. Apprenticeships offer an accessible pathway, providing on-the-job training and support that can help to overcome these barriers.

For those who may have struggled in a traditional educational setting, apprenticeships offer an alternative route to success. At Lanes Group, our apprenticeships come with additional support, such as mentoring and coaching, to help provide all participants with the best possible chance of completing their programme and securing long-term employment.

Bridging the skills gap

One of the most significant challenges facing many industries today is the growing skills gap. As technology continues to advance and industries evolve, the demand for skilled workers who are up-to-date with the latest techniques and tools is increasing. However, traditional university education, particularly undergraduate degrees, don't equip students with these valuable skills, and graduates often struggle to keep pace with these rapid changes. This leads to a mismatch between the skills taught in universities and those required in the workforce. Apprenticeships offer a proactive solution to this issue by providing training that is directly aligned with particular industry needs.

At Lanes Group, our apprenticeship programmes are designed to bridge this skills gap by offering cutting-edge training that prepares apprentices for the demands of the modern workplace. This industry-specific training benefits apprentices, who gain valuable and relevant skills and recognised qualifications, and employers, who gain a workforce that is ready to meet the challenges of a rapidly changing industry.

The value of mentorship

One of the unique aspects of apprenticeships that sets them apart from traditional education is the emphasis on mentorship. In an apprenticeship, learning is not confined to the classroom; instead, it extends to the workplace, where experienced professionals provide guidance and support to apprentices. This mentorship is invaluable, as it allows apprentices to learn directly from those who have a wealth of experience in the field.

At Lanes Group, we understand the importance of mentorship in the apprenticeship journey. Our programmes pair apprentices with seasoned professionals who share their expertise, offer practical advice, and provide encouragement and constant practical learning opportunities. The relationships formed through mentorship can also lead to long-term professional connections, providing a strong network of support throughout an apprentice's career.

Why choose a Lanes Group apprenticeship?

At Lanes Group, we are committed to investing in our workforce and providing robust training programmes that offer ample opportunities for career advancement. Our extensive network across the UK enables us to respond quickly and effectively to our clients’ needs, offering a wide array of services in the drainage sector.

Joining Lanes Group brings a wealth of benefits, including career development opportunities, professional training, employee recognition programmes and a supportive team environment. Our comprehensive benefits package, which includes pension plans, paid leave, flexible working hours and wellness programmes, ensures that our employees are well-supported both personally and professionally.

Whether you are a school leaver, a career changer or someone facing barriers to employment, a Lanes Group apprenticeship could be the ideal pathway to a successful and rewarding career. Unlike a university degree, our apprenticeships teach necessary skills for success without requiring extensive academic qualifications. We are always on the lookout for dedicated, enthusiastic and energetic individuals to join our team and contribute to our dynamic and growing organisation.

Get in touch today

If you’re ready to take the first step towards a fulfilling career in the drainage industry, explore the apprenticeship opportunities at Lanes Group. Whether you’re seeking an entry-level position or looking to advance your career, we offer the training, support and opportunities you need to succeed.

Take a look at the roles we have to offer and start your journey with Lanes Group today.

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