Story posted: 09/02/2024
It's never too late to become an apprentice
There is often the misconception that apprenticeships are only available for school leavers and young adults. In fact, there is no upper age limit and figures from the Department of Education show that spending through the Apprenticeship Levy on those aged 25 and over more than doubled between 2017/18 and 2021/22.
This National Apprenticeship Week we meet 43 year old John Michael from Basildon who is currently doing a Level 7 Masters Degree Apprenticeship in Business Analytics and a Development Quality and Compliance Specialist at Sempra Homes.
Tell us about your career journey to date
“I joined Basildon Council in 2017 and have also been working for Sempra Homes for the past three years. Prior to joining I completed my degree in 2017 and was always keen to continue my learning. Through the support of both Sempra Homes and Basildon Council I was given the opportunity to do a Masters’ Degree Apprenticeship Level 7 in Business Analytics. People often think that apprentices are for younger team members, but the Apprenticeship Levy is also open to people like me which has enabled me to do this.”
How is the apprenticeship benefiting you?
“It is so rewarding to be able to continue my study through this apprenticeship. I am gaining additional skills and knowledge which is developing me both professionally and personally and am able developing further tools and learning which I am applying to my role. I am also grateful to Sempra for giving me a day a week to study.”
What advice would you give to someone considering an apprenticeship
“Never rule out doing an apprenticeship later in your career – there is no age limit, and the Apprenticeship Levy is open to anyone over 16 who is not in full time education. Having an organisation behind you that is supportive also makes you feel valued, and I would really encourage more people to follow my path of working, earning, and learning.”
Melanie Keys, Sempra Homes Service Manager & Company Secretary comments, “It's important that we change the perception that apprenticeships are just for young adults. They also provide people at any age with the opportunity to develop themselves and build a rewarding career. We are proud to support team members like John who are upskilling and adding ongoing value to our business.”
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