If you’re finishing college and unsure what to do next, you’re not alone. Many young people feel pressured to go to university because it seems like the only way to build a career. But with tuition fees in England rising to £9,535 per year, not to mention the increasing costs of living, university isn’t always the only - or even best - option. Particularly these days, where quality apprenticeships exist that allow you to earn money, gain qualifications and build a career without having to take on the debts associated with a degree.

Research indicates that apprenticeships can provide a strong pathway into employment, often leading to long-term career success. According to the Department for Education's Apprenticeship Evaluation 2023, a high proportion of apprentices remain in employment or further training after completing their programme.

Unlike university, an apprenticeship offers real-world experience from day one. You’ll be working alongside experienced professionals, learning practical skills that directly apply to the job market. At Lanes Group, for instance, our apprenticeships are designed to give you the best of both worlds - structured learning combined with hands-on experience - so you can learn, earn and thrive right from the start. In this guide, we’ll show you how apprenticeships can lead to a secure and rewarding career without the financial strain of university.

The advantage of hands-on learning

A university degree is often built around theory, essays and exams. While this approach suits some people, it doesn’t provide the same level of practical, job-ready skills as an apprenticeship.

With an apprenticeship you’ll spend most of your time working alongside experienced professionals, applying what you learn in a real working environment. This hands-on approach means you’re not just studying a subject - you’re learning how to do the job from day one.

At Lanes, our apprentices work on important projects, building skills that are directly relevant to their careers. By the time you complete your apprenticeship, you’ll already have industry experience - something many university graduates struggle to gain, and a huge barrier to securing a job in the right industry.

Earning while you learn: a smart financial choice

One of the biggest challenges university students face is the financial burden. With tuition fees, accommodation and general living costs, many graduates leave university with over £45,000 in student debt.

Apprenticeships take a different approach. Instead of paying to learn, you get paid while you train. When you join us as an apprentice you can expect a salary that grows as you progress through your programme - and beyond.

Not only do apprentices avoid student debt, but they also gain valuable on-the-job experience, which can lead to faster career progression. According to data released by the ONS, nearly 5 million graduates are working in jobs that do not require a degree, illustrating the challenge university leavers face in securing graduate-level employment. In contrast, apprenticeships provide direct entry into the workforce, allowing you to develop industry-specific skills that lead to permanent employment and career progression.

Long-term opportunities

Apprenticeships aren’t just about getting a foot in the door; they’re a springboard into a skill-based career. By the time you complete your apprenticeship, you’ll be equipped with the skills and experience required to land your first role. In fact, many apprentices stay with their employers after training is complete.

At Lanes Group, our apprenticeships offer a structured path into a career that provides opportunities to progress into specialist and leadership roles.

A structured path to career success

Apprenticeships offer a structured pathway to career success, mixing practical experience with formal training - and it seems to work. According to the UK Government’s Apprenticeship Evaluation 2023, 86% of apprenticeship completers were in full-time work following their training. 

Why consider a Lanes Group apprenticeship?

If you’re unsure about your next step and don’t want the financial burden of university, an apprenticeship offers a practical and secure way to start your career. We offer you:

• A competitive salary so you can earn as you learn.
• Real-world experience to build up practical and in-demand skills.
• Industry-recognised qualifications that open doors for your future career progression.
• Mentorship and structured training.
• Opportunities for long-term career growth.

If you want to build a career you can be proud of, take a look at our open apprenticeship opportunities now.

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