Students who earned good grades in maths and science at GCSE should consider taking apprenticeships rather than traditional academic career paths, a leading scientist has advised. Rather than following the traditional route to A-levels then university, students could join an apprenticeship program straight after their GCSEs, train to become an engineer, for example, and then study for a degree or a diploma while working. And they would have a job and be earning money – seems like a really good idea.
Students who earned good grades in maths and science at GCSE should consider taking apprenticeships rather than traditional academic career paths, a leading scientist has advised. Rather than following the traditional route to A-levels then university, students could join an apprenticeship program straight after their GCSEs, train to become an engineer, for example, and then study for a degree or a diploma while working. And they would have a job and be earning money – seems like a really good idea.
As quoted in the Education Guardian John Morton, the chief executive of the Engineering and Technology Board, warned that too many pupils were rushing into higher education without considering vocational options. "This is not just a university numbers game. While we congratulate our students on their exam achievements, we urge pupils with an ability and interest in maths and science to seriously consider pursuing a vocational pathway via a paid advanced apprenticeship," he said. Rather than following the traditional route to A-levels then university, students could join an apprenticeship program straight after their GCSEs, train to become an engineer, for example, and then study for a degree or a diploma while working.
"It's a route to an exciting career in science and engineering, and it's an area where there is strong demand," said Dr Morton. "Companies such as Network Rail, EDF Energy, Centrica and the National Grid are all crying out for higher quality technicians." He also advised prospective applicants of the financial benefits that apprenticeships can bring. "Our research tells us that the average salary is around £31,000 for registered technicians," he said.
You only need to look at first level jobs in the New Scientist jobs page to realise that this is a pretty good salary.
Morton goes on to say "It's skills that underpin your career rather than education and that's what people are willing to pay for. This is a real opportunity. I'm concerned that people may do other courses at universities which don't have the same career options available through apprenticeships."
Engineering is a field where Dr Morton was keen to highlight the real opportunities, believing that the shortage of technicians was affecting the economy in this country.
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