Apprenticeships are emerging as a powerful tool for breaking down barriers and creating equality, diversity and inclusion within the workplace.
At Instep, we are committed to leading the charge in creating opportunities for all, regardless of age, background, or gender.
That’s why we are proud to boast a 100% pass rate in our leadership courses which empower people from diverse backgrounds to accelerate their career growth and become a driver of real impact within their places of work.
In this article, we explore the pivotal role apprenticeships have in challenging traditional norms in the UK and providing a pathway to success for diverse groups.
Let’s start with ageism.
Breaking Down the Ageism Barrier
Traditionally, apprenticeships were seen as a route for young school leavers.
However, this perception is changing.
This shift is crucial in combating ageism, providing a flexible and accessible learning experience for everyone.
For instance, consider the story of Jane*, a woman in her 50’s who recently signed up for the Women in Leadership Level 5 course at Instep.
Course trainer Heather Traynor tells us how, after just one workshop session, Jane’s perception of how her own age impacts her career was changed.
Heather said: “She sent me an email after the first the workshop, and said to me, ‘thank you so much Heather, you’ve put my ageism at bay.’”
“She thought she was too old to do anything like this because she hadn’t been to university before, and she admitted to me she was terrified to start the programme. But she is now thriving and is one of the most engaged people in the sessions.”
This is a real, anecdotal example of how apprenticeships can serve to break down the barriers people have, and age is just one of many potential restrictions to career advancement.
*Real name withheld
Apprenticeships vs. University
The cost of higher education can be prohibitive, particularly for those from lower socio-economic backgrounds.
University tuition fees in the UK can reach up to £9,250 per year, not including living expenses.
In contrast, apprenticeships offer a debt-free alternative, allowing individuals to earn while they learn.
This makes apprenticeships an attractive option for those who might otherwise be excluded from higher education due to financial constraints.
National statistics support this shift.
These programmes not only provide practical skills but also lead to recognised qualifications, making them a viable alternative to traditional university degrees.
Minimum Wage for College Placements
While internships and placements through college often pay minimum wage, apprenticeships provide a structured pathway with clear wage guidelines.
The current National Minimum Wage for apprentices is £6.40 per hour. This ensures that apprentices are fairly compensated for their work, making it a viable option for many.
The North-South Divide
Educational opportunities in the UK are not evenly distributed.
Apprenticeships can help bridge this gap by providing accessible training opportunities across the country, regardless of geographic location.
For example, a young person in Manchester might find it challenging to afford university in London. However, an apprenticeship in their local area can provide them with the same level of education and career prospects without the associated costs and displacement.
Gender Diversity in Apprenticeships
Gender diversity remains a challenge in certain sectors.
For example, women are significantly underrepresented in fields like construction and engineering.
Programmes like “Women in Engineering” and “Girls Who Code” are excellent examples of initiatives that encourage young women to pursue careers in traditionally male-dominated fields.
Courses such as Women in Leadership allow women to gain confidence to allow their voices to be heard and make them feel like they deserve a seat at the table.
By highlighting the achievements of women across a diverse range of sectors, apprenticeships can inspire the next generation of female leaders.
Sectors Fetching in New Talent
Apprenticeships are not confined to traditional trades. They span a wide range of industries, including IT, healthcare, finance, and creative arts.
This diversity opens up opportunities for individuals with varied interests and talents, ensuring that everyone can find a pathway that suits their aspirations.
For instance, the tech industry has seen a significant increase in apprenticeship programs aimed at bringing in fresh talent.
Companies like Google and Microsoft offer apprenticeships that provide hands-on experience and mentorship, preparing individuals for successful careers in technology.
At Instep, we tailor our courses to promote leadership, which is transferable across sectors in giving people the theory, mentality, and practical push to excel in their careers and rapidly progress themselves along in their career pathways.
More than an Alternative
Apprenticeships are not just an alternative to traditional education; they are a transformative force for equality, diversity and inclusivity.
By breaking down barriers related to age, socio-economic status, and gender, apprenticeships are creating a more equitable and diverse workforce.
At Instep, we are proud to champion these opportunities and lead the way in creating an equal, diverse and inclusive future.
Through our commitment to this equality, diversity and inclusivity, we aim to empower individuals from all walks of life to achieve their full potential.
Whether it’s through tailored training programmes, mentorship opportunities, or community engagement, we believe that everyone deserves a chance to succeed – and apprenticeships are proving to be a great way of doing exactly that.
