Thinking that apprenticeships are only for young people? Think again.
Apprenticeships are a powerful route for adults of any age to launch a new career, upskill in their current role, or earn a recognised qualification while still earning a salary.
Apprenticeships are a dynamic, on-the-job training model that perfectly suits the needs of adult learners.
Career Change or Upskilling: Whether you’re looking to completely pivot your career or gain a higher-level qualification in your existing industry, an apprenticeship provides the practical experience and structured learning you need.
Earn While You Learn: Apprenticeships combine employment with training. This means you are a full employee from day one, earning a salary and receiving all the standard benefits, allowing you to maintain financial stability while you study.
Real-World Skills, Instantly: You spend approximately 80% of your time in the workplace, applying your learning immediately. This ensures the skills you gain are current, relevant, and directly demanded by employers.
Valuable Experience Recognised by Employers: Employers often prefer candidates with apprenticeship experience because they are proven to be competent, committed, and ready to contribute immediately.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
An apprenticeship is an investment in your future, regardless of your age. Here are two ways you can start your journey:
Explore Vacancies: Browse our current apprenticeship job listings to find an opportunity with an employer looking for someone with your experience.
Speak to Your Employer: If you're happy in your current job, talk to your manager or HR department about starting an apprenticeship in your current role to gain a formal qualification and enhance your career progression. Email: EmployerServices@wmc.ac.uk
Hi, I’m Ailz. What I love most about education is the opportunity to make a genuine difference to people’s lives, help them recognise their own potential, and open doors to new careers and pathways. I began my career teaching English in Further Education, before becoming a mentor for trainee teachers through their placement years. I really enjoyed mentoring and coaching trainees, helping them develop their practice and discover their own strengths as teachers. This led me into teacher education, where I now work as a Programme Lead, supporting the next generation of teachers in the Further Education and Skills sector.
I care deeply about social mobility, the importance of positive relationships, and helping students feel confident and engaged in their learning. I’m a nurturing and approachable teacher educator, and I’m committed to ensuring that every trainee I work with feels encouraged, valued, and supported as they develop their practice.
I’m Sasha. What I enjoy most about working in education is helping people build confidence and realise their full potential. I spent 13 years working as a teaching assistant and Learning Support Assistant before moving into teaching Health and Social Care and Access courses with learners aged 16 and over. These experiences shaped my belief in the importance of positive relationships and adapting teaching to meet individual needs.
Mentoring trainee teachers and coaching colleagues sparked my interest in teacher education, which I moved into in 2024. I enjoy helping trainees connect theory with classroom practice, try out new approaches and find their own confidence as teachers. I aim to create a supportive space where they can ask questions, reflect honestly and feel comfortable seeking advice.
I have a degree in Psychology, a master’s in Mental Health, a PGCE, the National Professional Qualification in Leading Teacher Development and a Postgraduate Certificate in Coaching and Mentoring in Education. These studies continue to inform my interests in inclusive teaching, wellbeing, and supporting others to develop their practice.
