Higher education has long been viewed as the traditional route to success, but higher apprenticeships offer a compelling alternative. By combining academic learning with real-world work experience, they allow you to gain advanced qualifications equivalent to a foundation degree while developing practical skills on the job. Earn while you learn, without the burden of student debt.

At Lanes Group, higher apprenticeships play a key role in shaping the future of our workforce. Our programmes offer hands-on experience, professional growth, and the chance to contribute to exciting projects in the drainage and infrastructure industries.

How Do Higher Apprenticeships Work?

These structured programmes combine academic study with practical, hands-on work experience. Typically delivered in partnership with universities, colleges or training providers, higher apprenticeships allow participants to split their time between the workplace and formal education. This balance lets you dive straight into the working world - you'll earn a salary, gain qualifications, and develop valuable skills.

Most higher apprenticeships have a simple structure. You’ll spend part of your week gaining hands-on experience in the workplace, and the rest on academic study. That could mean attending classes, learning online, or working through assignments at home. Programmes usually last between one and five years, depending on the level of qualification, and by the end, you could come away with recognised qualifications like NVQs, HNDs, or even a bachelor’s degree.

What makes higher apprenticeships stand out is how they prepare you for the future. You won’t just learn the technical skills for your role—you’ll also develop abilities like project management, communication and problem-solving. These skills give you an edge when it comes to stepping into leadership roles or pushing your career further.

At Lanes Group, higher apprenticeships give you the chance to learn from the best. You’ll work with experienced professionals on real projects, gaining insider knowledge and building confidence along the way. With our support and training, you’ll leave ready to take on challenges and carve out a career you can be proud of.

Who Can Apply for a Higher Apprenticeship?

Higher apprenticeships are open to anyone ready to take their next step, whether you’ve just finished college or are already working and looking to upskill. Typically, you’ll need A-levels, a Level 3 apprenticeship, or equivalent qualifications, but employers are often just as interested in your motivation, enthusiasm and potential.

They’re perfect for school leavers who want to jump straight into work while still gaining qualifications. There’s no upper age limit either, so anyone keen to grow their skills can apply. Employers look for people who are ready to learn, work hard, and bring fresh ideas to the table.

At Lanes Group, we’re all about spotting talent. Whether you’ve got a background in engineering, construction, or something completely different, our higher apprenticeships give you the chance to prove yourself while building a career in a fast-paced, exciting industry.

What are the Benefits of a Higher Apprenticeship?

Choosing a higher apprenticeship comes with serious perks. You’ll be earning a salary from day one while working towards qualifications that could open up huge opportunities for the future. Unlike university, there’s no student debt — you’ll learn and get paid at the same time.

On top of that, you’ll gain real-world experience that sets you apart. You won’t just know how things work; you’ll have done it yourself. Employers love hiring people with practical skills, and a higher apprenticeship gives you exactly that. Plus, the transferable skills you’ll pick up—like teamwork, problem-solving, and managing projects—are valuable no matter where your career takes you.

At Lanes Group, you’ll get even more. Our apprenticeships aren’t just about learning the basics; they’re about giving you the chance to work on exciting projects and make a real impact. By the time you finish, you’ll have the qualifications, experience, and confidence to take your career to the next level.

Higher Apprenticeships and Degree Apprenticeships: What’s the Difference?

Higher apprenticeships and degree apprenticeships both offer the chance to learn on the job while earning qualifications, but they’re designed for slightly different goals.

A higher apprenticeship focuses on getting you into the workplace quickly. You'll combine practical experience with academic study, leading to a foundation degree level qualification. These programmes are ideal for gaining real-world skills and stepping straight into specialised roles early in your career.

Degree apprenticeships go further, offering full bachelor’s or master’s degrees at Levels 6-7. They involve more intensive academic study and are often aimed at those looking to move into senior or highly specialised positions later on.

Here at Lanes Group, we see higher apprenticeships as the perfect stepping stone from college into a career. You’ll get hands-on experience, industry-relevant skills, and the chance to grow without the lengthy academic commitment of a degree apprenticeship.

Are Higher Apprenticeships Challenging?

Higher apprenticeships can be intense, so you’ll need to be ready to manage your time and stay focused. Balancing work, study, and your personal life can feel overwhelming at first, but with the right mindset, it’s completely achievable.

The trick is to stay organised. Keep on top of deadlines, ask for help when you need it, and make the most of your support network. Colleagues and mentors are there to guide you, so don’t be afraid to lean on them.

Why Choose a Higher Apprenticeship at Lanes?

A higher apprenticeship at Lanes Group is your chance to kick-start a career where you’ll make a real difference. Working with one of the UK’s top names in drainage and infrastructure, you’ll gain hands-on experience and qualifications that set you up for a bright future—all while contributing to projects that matter.

We’re all about helping you grow and thrive. Whether you’re into engineering, maintenance, or want to explore something new, you’ll get training, support and real-world experience that build your skills - and career - to the next level. You'll be guided by industry pros, offered plenty of opportunities for progression, and given everything you need to prepare for future leadership roles.

At Lanes, we put people first. From paid leave and flexible working to wellness programmes and a solid pension plan, we make sure you’re supported every step of the way. If you’re ready to dive into a role that gives you real opportunities and the tools to succeed, there’s a place for you on our team.

Join Us as a Higher Apprentice

Whether you’re fresh out of college or looking to jump into an exciting new role, joining Lanes as a higher apprentice is your chance to gain valuable skills, earn recognised qualifications, and build a future you can be proud of.

Head to our job listings to explore the roles waiting for you.

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