DYW West Highland – connecting young people, education and employers…

At DYW West Highland we see that young peoples’ priorities have changed. They are well informed about their choices with over 73% now considering an apprenticeship to future-proof their career pathway.

Apprenticeships o er young people the opportunity to ‘earn while they

What will I get paid?

All apprentices are paid the National Minimum Wage. However, in today’s competitive job market, where there are more vacancies than candidates’, apprenticeships can o er £16100 to £24960 a year, depending on age, employer and apprenticeship level.

Who funds this?

e Government and the employer co-fund every programme.

Do apprentices do all the basic tasks?

Rest assured; you won’t get stuck making the tea. In order to successfully complete an apprenticeship programme at any level, you will have to complete a wide range of tasks. Employers are obliged to provide practical and relevant work experience that supports your professional development. (But we can say, everyone loves the o er of a cuppa!) learn’, to attain nationally recognised quali cations while avoiding student debt – a chance that’s proving too good to miss.

There’s been a lot of hearsay about apprenticeships over the years. Here’s our fact nder to help you understand this career pathway in the current climate.

Will I get a job at the end?

Around 90% of apprentices go into work or further training a er completing their programme. Two-thirds get hired permanently by their employer.

Are apprenticeships only available in trade industries?

Absolutely not. ese days apprenticeships are now available in over 600 occupations – with new programmes being added through demand from employers. Apprentices are valued team members in every organisation they work in, bringing with them enthusiasm and fresh approaches.

Are apprenticeships for those who don’t do well at school?

Again, not true. Anyone over 16 can kick-start their career by joining an apprenticeship. ere are three types – Foundation, Modern or Graduate. On all of them you receive real-life industry experience and learning at a level that works for you. Even up to degree level.

Most apprenticeships are for men?

No, not true! In fact, the gender gap is closing with women making 50% of apprentices in 2021/2. Which employers o er Apprenticeships locally in Lochaber?

There are many employers throughout Lochaber who offer Apprenticeships when they can, currently at the time of writing, there are vacancies at Ferguson’s Transport & Shipping, BSW Timber, Stramash, Mowi, DMD Construction, The Lovat, Aldi, QA, McDonald’s. New opportunities will be available during Apprenticeship Week 2023. Unlock your potential!

How do I nd an Apprenticeship?

As with any job search, there’s a variety of ways to nd your future. Speak to employers you’re interested in working for, and check out: social media, job listing websites, newspapers and websites like apprenticeships.scot.

How can DYW West Highland help me to my Apprenticeship?

With a School Coordinator in every local school, DYW can arrange work experience, site visits, employability skills workshops, employer visits to schools – a variety of events for students and schools to link with employers and be inspired. ere are so many roles available that being able to say on your application that you’ve enjoyed a related workexperiencewillmakeyourapplicationshineout. e employability skills sessions we provide also help you with your con dence and techniques at interview. An essential part of getting hired!

DYW West Highland – inform, inspire, helping you get hired! www.dywwesthighland.org info@dywwesthighland.org