COMMENT: Level 5 graduates prove public perception towards apprenticeships is shifting
Posted on: 26th Nov 2024
Apprenticeships 
Sorcha Gass, Business Development Manager at Ignite Training, celebrates the shift in people’s thoughts processes concerning apprenticeships and adult learning
One of our biggest challenges at Ignite Training historically has been reversing people’s misguided assumptions that apprenticeships only serve to benefit young people.
Since joining the team as Business Development Manager in August 2021, huge strides have been made to shift the public’s perception of vocational qualifications and how every person – regardless of their experience or job title – can benefit from training.
Showcasing the stories of our middle-aged and senior apprentices who have used training to upskill and even change careers has been immensely satisfying.
But eclipsing this (just!) will be seeing our first Level 5 Operations/Departmental Manager apprentices concluding their studies with our team of tutors before the turn of the year.
Launching the qualification in September 2022 was a milestone moment for us. It marked the first time Ignite Training would deliver programmes equivalent to a Foundation Degree and unlocked new training and staff development opportunities for our partners.
It prompted new working relationships too, with Bristol Bears, Queens Park Rangers, Norwich City, West Ham, Oxfordshire Youth and Birmingham City Foundation all investing in the power of apprenticeships.
Without wishing to single individual learners out, the story behind former Premier League footballer Andrew Impey epitomises how apprenticeships today are delivered with no boundaries.
Thirty years ago, Andrew was mixing with some of football’s most recognisable names – Alan Shearer, David Beckham and Thierry Henry, for example. Fast-forward to 2024 and his present role as Head of Player Development at Queens Park Rangers, Andrew is just as committed to operating to his true potential.
And he’s even admitted to becoming one of the converted by telling us he had no idea apprenticeships could be so useful.
“Before beginning my apprenticeship, I had no idea they could be so useful,” said Andrew. “I thought apprenticeships were for school leavers only!
“Studying has genuinely been a game changer. A lot of ex-players recommended an apprenticeship to me and I’m glad I took their advice. Studying on this course has been a real eye-opener for me, and I’ve learned a lot about myself.”
Coupled with our CMI accreditation achieved earlier this quarter, the year will conclude on a real high with solid foundations established to facilitate further growth and opportunities in 2025.
As my colleague Neville alluded too in his most recent column, being CMI accredited means we can provide a clear development programme for organisations to invest in their teams and deliver cost-effective qualifications which are internationally recognised.
Not only this, but CMI recognised providers are proven to support business growth by enhancing productivity and outcomes as a direct result of developing employees’ skillsets.
The beginning of the year started with a touch of uncertainty regarding what the outlook for apprenticeships might be because of previous Government’s decision to call a General Election.
With clarity in place and a promise of increased flexibility and a focus on establishing essential skills, you could argue there has never been a better time to invest in your team’s personal and professional development.
