Information, Advice & Guidance for Parents & Carers
Careers Information
As a parent or carer, you play a vital role in helping your young person make confident, informed decisions about their next steps. This page brings together everything you need to understand apprenticeships and training with System People, how you can support at home, and where to find further guidance.
What is an apprenticeship?
An apprenticeship is a paid job with training and a recognised qualification. Learners build real workplace skills while studying with us, gaining experience that employers value.
How apprenticeships compare to other routes
- Apprenticeship: Earn while you learn, employed by a real organisation, with structured off-the-job training and an end-point assessment.
- Full-time study (e.g., college): Classroom-based learning, typically no employment contract during study.
- Employment: Work without a formal training programme or qualification attached.
Apprenticeship levels (plain English)
- Level 2 (Intermediate): Foundation skills for a role.
- Level 3 (Advanced): Comparable to A-level standard, prepares for skilled roles or further study.
Typical benefits for your young person
- Regular salary and paid holidays while training.
- Hands-on experience and industry-recognised qualifications.
- Improved employability and clear progression routes.
Common myths (and the facts)
- “It’s not ‘real’ learning.” Apprenticeships combine on-the-job experience with structured training and assessment.
- “It limits future choices.” Many apprentices progress onto higher levels or related roles with strong career prospects.
- “It’s only for practical jobs.” Apprenticeships span a wide range of sectors and roles.