With National Apprenticeship Week in full swing, we have a chat with Myles Webb, head of sales at Not Going To Uni, an organisation that has lots of useful information and advice about apprenticeships and how to get them.
Hi Myles, can you tell us more about Not Going To Uni?
www.notgoingtouni.co.uk is the UK’s leading website for school and college leavers who are looking at the alternatives to university such as apprenticeships, voluntary work, sponsored degrees, diplomas, gap years, distance learning and entry-level jobs. We receive around 200,000 visits to the website every month, working with the likes of Bam Construct, Mace, Balfour Beatty, Barratt Developments, Atkins and more.
What courses are typically listed in construction-/housebuilding-related subjects?
We currently have roles listed for the following; construction management, quantity surveying, building services, engineering, bricklaying, carpentry and joinery, plumbing and heating, and civil engineering. However the opportunities are always changing with new and different roles being uploaded constantly.
Has there been an increasing interest in apprenticeships in this sector?
Over the last year we have seen an increase in traffic and interest to the construction sector, especially relevant as the offering has greatly increased in higher level (degree apprenticeship) opportunities – a broader type of job is available.
What should job-seekers be considering when it comes to apprenticeships?
At Not Going To Uni we are a fan of understanding the work/study mix as well as the range of skills covered. What is important to remember is that as an apprentice you will likely be starting off on your career journey, therefore although a wage is important it enables you to gain relevant qualifications and useful experience whilst being able to support yourself.
Are there apprenticeships available in construction outside the on-site manual skills?
Yes, some were mentioned above, however the likes of Bam Construct are offering apprenticeship roles in marketing, IT and finance to name a few.
What’s the current earning potential of apprenticeship-related careers in construction?
Unfortunately I do not have information directly related to construction apprentices. However a study did find that some apprentices are set to earn/earning up 270% more over their lifetime than some graduates.
What’s the best way for young people to find out if an apprenticeship is what they need?
The best way to do this is to look at websites such as notgoingtouni.co.uk, to talk to a careers advisor and people already in the industry they are looking to pursue a career in, allowing good advice to be sought. Alternatively, in my opinion, the best way to know if an apprenticeship is right for you would be to take a step back and assess how best you learn and what you want to achieve in life.
Come to listen and talk about housebuilding careers – apprenticeship, diversity, training and leadership – at our New Homes Debate in London on Thursday 15 March 2018.
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