Apprenticeships are growing rapidly in the UK, yet outdated myths still prevent many people from seeing their true value.
A recent survey of 2,000 workers and SME owners, commissioned by Nottingham Trent University, revealed that misconceptions remain widespread, even as apprenticeships open doors to professional careers, inclusion and economic growth.
One of the most persistent myths is that apprenticeships are just for manual trades. In fact, the survey found that a third of people still believe this and more than a quarter don’t realise apprenticeships can lead to professional careers like law, nursing or science.
Today, apprenticeships cover industries ranging from digital marketing to aerospace engineering, opening pathways into some of the UK’s most in-demand professions. Becoming a solicitor, biomedical scientist, civil engineer, nurse or teacher is now possible through an apprenticeship, proving they are far more than a route into traditional trades.
Another misconception is that apprenticeships are only for school leavers. Many still think they are limited to those aged 16 to 25, while others assume they are capped at 30. National apprenticeship data tells a different story. The average apprentice in England is now aged between 36 and 41.
This shows that apprenticeships are just as valuable for adults changing careers or professionals looking to upskill as they are for young people starting out. Employers who embrace this are reaping the rewards, with 73 per cent reporting increased productivity and more than half saying apprenticeships help them to attract top talent and reduce turnover.
One in ten Britons still believe a university degree always trumps hands-on experience and more than half are unaware that it is now possible to achieve both through an apprenticeship. Higher and degree apprenticeships combine study with paid work, producing graduates who leave without debt, equipped with practical experience and highly valued skills.
Some assume apprenticeships cannot play a role in tackling unemployment. The truth is that they are one of the most effective ways to bridge the gap between education and employment. Apprenticeships give people the chance to gain practical experience while learning futureproof skills that industries desperately need.
For employers, apprenticeships are an opportunity to shape talent from day one, embedding technical skills alongside the company’s culture and values.
Apprenticeships have a real impact when it comes to diversity and inclusion. They open doors for people from all walks of life, whether that’s those from lower socio-economic backgrounds, underrepresented ethnicities or those living with disabilities, giving access to well-paid, meaningful careers that might feel otherwise out of reach. They also bring fresh perspectives and new ideas into organisations, encouraging teams to think differently and challenge the status quo.
Learning alongside experienced colleagues helps create a culture where knowledge sharing and growth are part of everyday life. When clear progression routes are in place, apprentices aren’t just starting a job, they’re building a long-term career. For employers, this means stronger retention and a workforce that better reflects the diverse world around them.
