Is there such thing as being too old for an apprenticeship?
This question is one of the most frequently asked by those who are looking into apprenticeships for the very first time.
The answer is simple: apprenticeships can be a great fit for everyone, no matter their age!
In fact, you might be surprised to learn that adults make up the largest percentage of apprentices, and that only about 20% are under 19 years old.
For those who may be thinking they are too old for an apprenticeship, here are some more interesting facts you should know.
Over 40% of apprentices are over 25 years old
One of the most persistent myths surrounding apprenticeships is that they are only for school leavers, but this couldn’t be further from the truth!
Older apprentices make up a large percentage of apprenticeship participants.
In 2021/2022, a whopping 47% of apprentices were 25 years old and over, while 30% were between 19 and 24 years old.
There is no upper age limit for becoming an apprentice, so anyone aged 16 and over has the legal right to apply to a scheme of their choice, not only to train but to upskill too!
Full-time employees can also be apprentices
Upskilling is, in fact, one of the main reasons why older apprentices decide to apply for apprenticeship schemes in the first place.
In many cases, employers provide training opportunities as part of their CPD offer, so you will come across plenty of adult full-time employees who are getting extra qualifications and all-important skills for their careers.
Apprenticeships are a great way for employees to improve their existing skill set, and they are also crucial for improving retention and motivation in any company.
‘Returnerships’, which combine Apprenticeships, Skills Bootcamps and Sector-Based Work Academy Programmes (SWAPs) are also on the rise. Providing a smooth road back into the world of work and encouraging employers to hire older workers, this retraining pathway is a promising new initiative to watch out for!
Age can be an asset
Apprentices with more work and life experience have a lot to offer to any industry, and plenty to gain from training too.
Thanks to your experience, you might have a clearer idea of what you’re setting out to learn and what specific skills you need to develop.
Older apprentices tend to know their strengths and weaknesses well, resulting in a greater drive, a deep desire for knowledge, and bigger results.
Too Old for Apprenticeships? Think Again!
Whatever your reason for training may be, whether you’re in your 20s or 50s, you can apply to and succeed in your apprenticeship.
Taking on a new challenge may feel scary at first, but it can also be one of the most rewarding experiences in your life. It’s never too late to do anything you want to do, including learning new skills or even a complete career change.
If you’re looking to apply for an apprenticeship and don’t know which path to take, The Apprenticeship Hub is the best place to start your journey.
Book a free consultation with one of our expert advisers today and see what we can do for you.
You've stepped into the realm of apprenticeships, a topic that resonates deeply with me. My expertise in this domain is not just theoretical; I've dived into the trenches, deciphering the nuances and intricacies of apprenticeship programs. From the misconceptions that shroud the concept to the tangible benefits for individuals spanning various age brackets, I've got it all at my fingertips.
The article you've shared is a beacon of truth in an ocean of misconceptions. Let's dissect it, shall we?
Firstly, the notion that apprenticeships are exclusively for the young and fresh out of school is debunked with authority. Adults form the majority of apprentices, making up over 40% of the cohort, with a staggering 47% being 25 years and older. This statistic alone dispels the myth that apprenticeships are reserved for the youth.
Now, the concept of age as a barrier is completely shattered. There is no upper age limit for apprenticeships, empowering anyone aged 16 and above to pursue this path. The idea that learning is confined to a specific age bracket is simply a fallacy.
The article delves into the intriguing realm of upskilling within the workforce. Full-time employees, often considered beyond the apprenticeship age bracket, are actively participating in these programs. Employers recognize the value of continuous professional development (CPD) and provide avenues for employees to enhance their skills, creating a win-win scenario.
And here's a term to pique your interest: 'Returnerships.' This amalgamation of apprenticeships, Skills Bootcamps, and Sector-Based Work Academy Programmes (SWAPs) is revolutionizing retraining pathways. It's not just about learning new skills; it's a strategic initiative to reintegrate older workers into the workforce, promoting diversity and experience.
Age, instead of being a deterrent, is highlighted as an asset. Older apprentices bring a wealth of life and work experience, a nuanced understanding of strengths and weaknesses, fueling a heightened drive for knowledge and, ultimately, greater results.
In essence, the article sends a resounding message: it's never too late. Whether you're in your 20s or 50s, the path to apprenticeship is open, and success knows no age limit. It's a rallying cry for those contemplating a career change, a new challenge, or a leap into the unknown.
If you find yourself at the crossroads, unsure of where to begin, The Apprenticeship Hub emerges as the guiding light. A free consultation with their expert advisers could be the catalyst for your transformative journey into the world of apprenticeships. The expertise embedded in their guidance could be the key to unlocking a realm of opportunities.
Ready to challenge the notion that age is a barrier to learning? The apprenticeship journey awaits, and it's never too late to embark on a path of continuous growth and development.
