Taking place between 10-16 February, National Apprenticeship Week 2025 is a celebration that shines a light on the positive impact that apprenticeships make to individuals, businesses and the wider economy. As apprenticeships continue to rise in popularity, this feature will take a closer look at some of the reasons why and introduce Harry Foster, who is two years into a risk and compliance officer apprenticeship at Secure Trust Bank (STB).
Why Choose a Different Path?
In the UK, more people are exploring apprenticeships for several compelling reasons. Firstly, the high cost of university education, with tuition fees reaching up to £9,250 per year, makes apprenticeships an attractive alternative. The schemes offer both a debt-free path to gaining qualifications while at the same time providing invaluable on-the-job training - something which is increasingly favourable among employers.
This hands-on experience allows individuals to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world settings, moving beyond the classroom and witnessing first-hand what their career might look like. Apprenticeships also offer promising long-term career opportunities. Completing an apprenticeship can lead to higher earnings, increased job security and potential for career advancement.
Together, these factors make apprenticeships an appealing option for young people seeking an alternative, practical route into a financially stable career. However, for many, getting their hands on an apprenticeship is still somewhat challenging.
Few and Far Between
Young people in the UK face several challenges when it comes to securing apprenticeships. The first is that many schools do not provide adequate guidance or encouragement for students to pursue apprenticeships. This can leave students unaware of the opportunities available or how to apply for them. The Apprenticeship Support and Knowledge for Schools (ASK) programme aims to address this by offering resources and workshops, but not all schools use these services.
There are also not enough apprenticeship positions to meet demand. This is particularly the case in certain industries or regions, making it difficult for young people to find suitable placements. The competition for available spots can be intense, making the process even more complicated and stressful for applicants.
Many young people are also unsure about what career they want to pursue, which can make committing to an apprenticeship difficult. Apprenticeships typically require a clear career direction, and the fear of making the wrong choice can deter some from applying.
However, simply having an interest or passion can be more than enough to take the first step into an apprenticeship, as Harry Foster found out.
Meet Harry Foster
Harry Foster is two years into a risk and compliance officer apprenticeship at STB. He started to consider the apprenticeship route while completing his A-Levels after deciding that he didn't want to take on the excessive costs of studying at university.
After studying Geography, Biology and Economics at A-Level, Harry decided to explore the route of real estate finance. He found the apprenticeship opportunity at Secure Trust Bank on his LinkedIn, decided to apply, and, following a rigorous application process, started his role as a risk and compliance officer apprentice in January 2023.
In his role, Harry is tasked with the completion of end-to-end Quality Assurance and monitoring. Confirming that processes and procedures are operating efficiently and safely to achieve outstanding customer experience and risk mitigation for the business. Over the past two years, he has had the opportunity to develop a variety of skills including honing his attention to detail and building confidence when consulting with senior colleagues.
The apprenticeship has also opened doors to several networking events for Harry including the 'Young Leaders Events' hosted by KPMG and similar events held by Wells Fargo.
Throughout his apprenticeship, Harry has received mentoring from his line manager, Sarah Harding, operations manager at STB Real Estate Finance, which he says has been crucial to his development.
In December, Harry passed the Level 3 Compliance and Risk Officer Apprenticeship Standard with a distinction mark and obtained his LIBF Certificate in Business Banking. He will continue with his studies with the goal of achieving the Level 5 Professional Diploma in Banking and Finance.
Speaking about the challenges he faced when exploring apprenticeships, Harry said: "For me, the main issue was a lack of support from my school in promoting early careers. It's difficult at a young age to know what you want to do for a career, but an apprenticeship offers you both a qualification and an income.
"My advice for young people wanting to go into an apprenticeship is to always ask questions, maintain a strong work ethic, be enthusiastic and always be prepared to take on new tasks."
Finding Future Talent
With time, more apprenticeship opportunities that offer a structured route into a long-term career with support from a mentor will arise to meet the soaring demand from young people. But to make apprenticeships accessible to more talented individuals, businesses and the government should be doing more to promote and spread awareness of the fantastic possibilities an apprenticeship can bring to more people like Harry.
Discover more about the Secure Trust Bank Group.