Choosing a Degree Apprenticeship

I pushed myself to do a degree apprenticeship, as not having a degree was holding me back in my career. Despite working in marketing for several years, not having a degree was a real chink in my armour.

There were many barriers I had to overcome just to enrol onto the course. I’m 33 with two children, so I always self-consciously thought that I was too old and couldn’t do something like this. I used to associate the term ‘apprenticeship’ with school leavers going to work on a construction site, which added to my self-doubt on whether doing an apprenticeship was for me.

My outlook was changed when a colleague of mine mentioned the Degree Apprenticeship programmes at Manchester Met. She encouraged me to enrol, and I was surprised at how simple it was to do so. One signed form and an application later, I was on my way.

Starting the programme

Reality hit when my space on the programme was confirmed. I of course was delighted, but the prospect of balancing my job, family life and now a degree was very daunting.

Since starting the apprenticeship those fears have been dismissed. I have enjoyed meeting a variety of people on the course with similar interests, and I think working from home has pushed me to network with others more than I normally would.

Putting knowledge into practice

The best element of doing a degree apprenticeship is being able to put knowledge into practice simultaneously. I’m able to apply what I’ve learnt in the (virtual) classroom to my role at the Christie, while seeing the positive results it can create.

I would encourage everyone not to think that their chance to learn or try something new has passed them by. A degree apprenticeship is for people of all ages and gaining ‘on the job’ experience is a great way of studying.

I’m delighted I didn’t let my initial doubts and stereotypical barriers put me off applying for a degree apprenticeship. I don’t want others who felt the same way as I did to get put off enrolling, so I have started a blog where I share my experiences of my apprenticeship. If this inspires even one person to overcome any barrier, I would be incredibly happy.