Are you thinking about your next career steps? Apprenticeships are a great way to get your foot in the door in a new industry, and set yourself up for a long and fulfilling career. In this blog we’ll give you an overview of when companies tend to recruit for apprenticeships, and offer up some tips to give you the best chance of securing that perfect role.  

Understanding Apprenticeship Application Timelines

There’s generally a lot of variety in how businesses recruit apprentices. At Lanes for instance, we recruit for most of our apprenticeships throughout the year, due to the many drainage projects we’re involved in all over the UK. In general, construction and utility companies have ongoing workforce demands, which means they take on apprentices on a rolling basis. In other sectors, apprenticeships tend to align with the academic year, meaning a September start.

One thing we would advise is to always check the closing date on any apprenticeship role you are looking to apply for so you don’t miss out. Also, if you really like the look of a job, don’t wait before you apply. Some roles will close once a certain number of applications have been received.

Choosing the Right Employer

It’s not just a company that gets to choose who it takes on as an apprentice: you get to choose them too. It’s important to remember that you have a choice in who you want to work with. Knowing your employer has clear values that meet up with your own outlook makes it far more likely that you will be happy in your new role.

Another factor you should keep in mind is whether you want to be part of a national company, or would rather be part of a smaller team. Working with a large employer, for instance, could give you the opportunity to relocate, a range of career progression opportunities and the chance to work closely with other apprentices. Plus, an apprenticeship with a nationally recognised employer looks great on your CV if you decide to look elsewhere for your next career move. Each employer will have their own timetable for when applications open, so you should always do your research..

When researching apprenticeship vacancies, you should consider the job description, the training provider's reputation (did you know you can Google their Ofsted rating?), employee benefits, and how the employer delivers their training component.

Exploring Different Types of Apprenticeships

Apprenticeships come in various levels, from intermediate apprenticeships to higher and degree apprenticeships. These days they are available in most sectors too, from accounting and IT, to engineering and drainage. This means that you have a diverse range of career paths to choose from

 

A Note on Applying for Multiple Apprenticeships

At Lanes Group, we actively encourage you to apply for multiple positions. We also encourage you to try again for the same apprenticeship in the future if you aren’t successful the first time. We do this because we care about your time and effort, and we understand the position you’re in. Employers advertise apprenticeships throughout the year, so it's important to regularly check for new opportunities. ​

Each employer will have different timelines for their recruitment process; some may start recruiting up to a year in advance, while others will have urgent needs. So keep applying, and see what comes your way.

What if You Change Your Mind?

It's natural for your career aspirations to evolve. If you initially apply for full-time education and later decide an apprenticeship is a better fit, you can still pursue this path. Conversely, if you start an apprenticeship and realise it's not aligning with your goals, you can hand in your notice. In such cases, training providers often support apprentices in finding new employment or further study opportunities. Flexibility is key, and resources are available to assist you during transitions.​

Tailoring Your Application

Your application is your chance to make a great first impression. To get things right, you should aim to adapt your approach to each position you apply for. Take the time to research each employer and the apprenticeship role you are applying for. Highlight the relevant skills and experience you have, and take the time to talk about your genuine interest in the position, because sometimes that personal touch will resonate with the person making the hiring decision.

Need help starting the application process? Try our manual worker CV template.

Preparing for the Interview Process

Being invited for an interview is an exciting moment - but also a scary one. Everyone gets nervous before an interview; it’s only natural. The best thing to do is to read up on the company, make sure you know what the role is about and think about how your specific skills, experience and personality traits meet up with what is being asked of you. Remember, interviews are a two-way street. This is also your opportunity to decide if the company is the right fit for you. So make sure to prepare some questions to ask on the day.

Why Consider an Apprenticeship with Lanes Group?

At Lanes Group, our apprenticeship programmes are designed to give you hands-on experience, industry-recognised qualifications and a clear pathway for career progression. Whether you're a school leaver, a career changer or someone looking to upskill, our diverse range of apprenticeships offers opportunities across various roles, from operational positions to technical and administrative roles.

By choosing an apprenticeship with Lanes Group, you're not just starting a job; you're embarking on a career journey with a company that values innovation, integrity and collaboration. Join us and become part of a team dedicated to excellence and making a difference in the communities we serve.​

To explore our current apprenticeship opportunities and take the first step toward a rewarding career, explore our apprenticeship roles now.

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