A guide to North West London

Making the right decision for your future

University degree versus an apprenticeship

After sixth form or college, students may choose to continue with their education through either an apprenticeship or a university degree.

An apprenticeship is a programme where you can work within your chosen industry while studying for a relevant qualification. The qualification can be at various levels, from Level 2 up to the equivalent to a Master’s degree (Level 7), and is often quite specific to a chosen industry. Apprenticeships enable you to start your career earlier, you can get practical workplace experience alongside your studies, and your qualification (as well as your salary) is paid for by your employer. Apprenticeships are available in various industries and specialisms, although they can be quite competitive to secure and they may be demanding as they require you to work almost full time while also studying, with some degree apprenticeships lasting up to six years.

Another way to continue with your education is by studying a degree at university – there are over 30,000 different courses to choose from. At university most students will obtain an undergraduate level of qualification (Level 6) within three years. A degree can open opportunities to work in a broad range of industries and many employers will hire graduates with any degree background. Around 86% of students that complete university are working in a fulltime job or in further education 15 months after they graduate. University degrees do come with tuition fees, but many students are eligible for government loans that do not need to be paid back until after graduation.

Students can develop transferable skills throughout their time at university, not just from studying a subject they love but also from the university environment, learning key life skills and the social experiences available. A university campus is a great place to try new things – from joining sports clubs and societies, to volunteering in the local community or learning a language alongside your degree. There may also be opportunities to gain work experience in your industry such as industrial placement years or summer internships.

You can apply to both university and apprenticeships at the same time to keep your options open. There is a lot to think about when choosing between the two, and there is no one right answer, instead it’s about making the right decision for you and your future.

ELLEN DWANE, Schools and Colleges Liaison Officer at Royal Holloway, University of London

www.royalholloway.ac.uk

A guide to North West London

All there is to see and do

North West London not only has a number of outstanding universities, it also has some of the most sought after residential addresses in London and has a vibrant atmosphere which appeals to all socio-economic groups. There are attractions, exhibitions and restaurants for students, families and anyone in between!

MUST-SEE ATTRACTIONS:

Royal Air Force Museum A free entertaining day out for the whole family. The Royal Air Force Museum has a number of exhibitions and displays intended to help the public learn about the RAF story and give tribute to the men and women who took part in the First and Second World War. Madame Tussauds An absolute must-see museum in London. Life-size wax replicas of famous celebrities and historic icons as you make your way through themed galleries. ZSL London Zoo London Zoo is impressively the world’s oldest scientific zoo, opened in 1828. Spend two to three hours enjoying the animals and all other exhibitions on the way. Kentish Town City Farm An urban farm with a range of animals that you can feed, pet and also have riding lessons. British Library One of (if not) the best libraries in London with rich culture and history to explore. It holds some

»