A valuable route into the world of work: earning and learning.

Scottish Apprenticeship Week celebrates the benefits of work-based learning and showcases apprentices who have developed their careers. Co-ordinated by Skills Development Scotland, the week runs Monday 4 - Friday 8 March 2019, and is an annual campaign highlighting the commitment of businesses investing in the skills of their workforce.

Our National Training Programmes Manager and Employability Manager, Sarah-Jane Urquhart explains what a Modern Apprenticeship (MA) is and how you can benefit from them.

Niamh Gilmartin was a Modern Apprentice within the Human Resources department at Perth College UHI. Upon completion of her MA, she took up a full time role within the HR team as an HR Assistant.

What is a Modern Apprenticeship?

A MA is an alternative way to gain recognised qualifications while working in your industry sector of choice. Depending on industry sector, these courses cover from SCQF 5 to SCQF 7. This type of qualification is completed in your workplace with minimal and sometimes no college attendance. It actually fits around work duties. With monthly visits from one of our expert assessors and using your work place practices, skills, procedures and activities, you create a portfolio to meet the standards of the awarding body.

We discuss your work role with your employer to make sure your work role meets the award. A training plan is created for your employer and we give plenty of support and guidance throughout the duration to make sure you complete your apprenticeship and gain your certificates.

Why would I do a Modern Apprenticeship?

I have worked with MAs’ and work-based training at Perth College UHI for around 18 years and over the years have seen a lot of candidates gain skills and confidence. I have also observed candidates becoming employers due to their own skills development.

Skills Development Scotland have created a family of apprenticeships: Foundation Apprenticeships, Modern Apprenticeships and Graduate Apprenticeships.

Do I become a student?

On enrolment you will receive a Perth College UHI student ID card which gives various discounts around the town. You would also be able to use all the facilities within the campus; Library, IT Suite, Coffee shops (we have 3 Costas on campus), student membership to Academy for Sport and Wellbeing (ASW), Student Services and our Additional Support Team if and when you need them. You will also be welcome to join any of the student activities within the Union-Link and around campus.

Progression options are discussed during your course. Your new skills will go a long way and there is always something else to move onto.

Is it for me?

Don’t be scared to ask questions as we are here to help and support. It’s not going to be easy mixing your work life and working on a qualification at the same time. However with a bit of commitment and careful planning you can achieve your goals.

I don’t have a job yet!
No need to worry. Just check out www.apprenticeships.scot or put together a CV and hand them into employers of your choice. Sometimes offering yourself for some work experience will let an employer know you are keen.