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Apprenticeships for Adults: How apprenticeships have evolved to be inclusive
September 2, 2020
Apprenticeships for Adults: How apprenticeships have evolved to be inclusive
Let’s address the elephant in the virtual room. The word “apprenticeship” makes you think of a 17-year-old boy learning joinery. And once upon a time, that stereotype might have been close to the truth. But a lot has changed. Today, apprenticeships are for everyone; apprenticeships are for adults. Let us repaint the picture for you.
What Apprenticeships Were
The first official apprenticeships were started in 1563, when Elizabeth 1st made it illegal to practice any trade or craft unless you had formal apprentice training. Apprentice’s would start from as young as 10, and train for around 7 years to become a master of their craft. To prove their expertise and to pass assessment from the relevant guild, the apprentice would submit their best piece of work, his “master piece”, and if it was deemed acceptable, he would become a master of his trade.
The Modern Apprenticeship
Throughout the following centuries, apprenticeships continued to be targeted at industries where the work was hands on. Throughout the following centuries, interest in apprenticeships also started to decline. Reforms were introduced in 1994, rebranding to Modern Apprenticeships (MA’s) and widening the sectors that training could be given in. Over the course of the following 20 years, the apprenticeship scheme was further refined to become the style of training we have today.
The Future of Training
Today, apprenticeships are a true alternative to college or university. There is no age limit. You can do an apprenticeship even if you already have a degree. Apprenticeships exist in:
- IT
- Media
- Marketing
- Engineering
- Teaching
- Childcare
- Healthcare, and so many more industries.
Apprenticeships are also incredibly employer orientated. Employers can work directly with training providers to ensure their staff develop the skills needed for the role. Apprenticeship standards are now developed alongside industry professionals to ensure that anything taught during an apprenticeship is relevant to the sector.
Apprenticeships for Adults
The evolution of the apprenticeship model means that it is now a truly viable training option for anyone. For individuals, apprenticeships are a great way to improve the skillset they have; a great way to change career; a great way to advance. For employers, apprenticeships are a cost effective way to give employees industry quality training on-the-job.
Apprenticeships with Empentis
The one thing that has stayed the same since 1563 is that apprenticeships are for taking someone from novice to expert. If you’re an employer who wants to re-train your staff or have them learn a completely new skillset, Empentis Training Solutions can help you. View our full course catalogue here, or contact us today if you’d like more information on the apprenticeships we offer.
Individuals looking to start an apprenticeship should visit the apprenticeship directory website.
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