Student Blog | Apprenticeships: Two Perspectives — From a Student and an Employer

Ever wondered what an apprenticeship is really like? We asked Cassidy, a degree-level engineering apprentice at BU, and Duncan, her employer at Charter Tech, to share their experiences.

Whether you’re considering nursing, engineering, digital marketing, accounting  – here’s what you need to know!

Cassidy’s View: Life as an Apprentice

“I wanted to pursue both education and real-world experience — I didn’t want to choose.”

Hi! I’m Cassidy, and I’m a degree-level apprentice at Charter Tech.

I chose this path because it offered the best of both worlds: studying and hands-on experience. As an apprentice, I work four days a week and spend one day at university. I’m paid a salary, I learn practical skills, and at the end, I’ll have a degree – with no student debt.

Since starting, my confidence has grown massively. I now feel comfortable sharing ideas in meetings, talking to clients, and presenting my work. My technical skills have grown too: I’ve learned document production, programming, engineering design analysis, and project management.

My top tips for applying

• Get your name out there! Talk to as many companies as you can.
• Don’t worry if you don’t have all the answers yet – just start.
• Be prepared to work hard, but know that it’s worth it.
• Keep an eye of all the apprenticeship websites, look over the government website for apprenticeships, BU’s website and UCAS.

A typical week for me is four days at work, one day at uni, and some evenings spent studying. The best part? Everything I learn at university connects directly to my day-to-day work.

I’d recommend an apprenticeship to anyone who wants to combine real-world experience with education. You’ll graduate with a degree, practical skills, and no student debt — it’s a no-brainer!

Duncan’s View: Why Employers Love Apprenticeships

“Apprenticeships bring new ideas and help us shape future talent.”

I’m Duncan, Managing Director at Charter Tech.

We started our apprenticeship scheme because we couldn’t find enough engineers with the right skills locally. Rather than wait and struggle, we decided to train and develop our own talent.

Our apprentices bring so much to the business. They come in with fresh perspectives and new technologies. They also help us future-proof the workforce by growing into exactly the roles we need. At Charter Tech, apprentices make up about a third of our team – they’re a big part of who we are.

Working closely with Bournemouth University and Bournemouth & Poole College means we can support our apprentices at every stage. Watching them grow from new starters to confident professionals is incredibly rewarding.

One proud moment for us was when Cassidy reached the finals of the Dorset Chamber Apprentice of the Year Awards — proof of her amazing growth.

My advice to other employers

• Be ready to invest time in training – it pays off.
• Apprentices will bring energy, new ideas, and loyalty.
• You’ll help shape your workforce for the future.

For young people thinking about an apprenticeship: it’s challenging, but you’ll finish with a degree, job experience, and no debt. If you’re ready to put in the effort, it can shape your entire career.

Final Thoughts

From both sides — student and employer — apprenticeships are a brilliant way to learn, earn, and grow.

If you’re considering it, start exploring today. Or, as Cassidy says:

“Just go for it!”

Find out more