“Anyone who stops learning is old, whether at twenty or eighty.

Anyone who keeps learning stays young.”

Henry Ford

A Personal Reflection by Thornfields Manager Gerry Devine

With over forty years of work experience under my belt, supplemented by a number of academic and professional qualifications, I was recently motivated by this Henry Ford quote. And whilst it was not the only factor, it was probably the one that tipped the balance for me signing up for a level 7 apprenticeship.

You may be asking why? (and trust me, so have I…) but in the words of the famous L’Oreal advert, the reason is very simply “because I’m worth it”. Both in terms of the experience I have accrued and my unexplored potential, I know I can develop further, still make a difference and add real value.

I wanted to formally accredit what I know, and I also wanted to open myself up to learn what I don’t know in the company of other like-minded people. Plus I might then have the opportunity to apply that learning back in a practical setting.

So Why a Level 7?  

Well it is equivalent to a master's degree, the average cost of which in the UK is between £10-12K. But because it’s an apprenticeship, there is no cost to me and my employer funds it from its apprentice levy – so no financial pain but the potential for considerable learning gain.

However, there have been recent Government announcements of plans to remove some level 7 apprenticeships from the scope of levy funding. So I wanted to do my bit to raise your awareness of this opportunity before it might be too late.

A level 7 apprenticeship can offer many benefits to both new entrants and seasoned professionals, like me.

So here is why a Level 7 apprenticeship could be the right choice for your career advancement and something that you may want to consider in any appraisal discussions you may have in the coming months.

For New Professionals: A Launchpad to Success

• Recognising Experience: Help to convert real life experience into a formal academic qualification that can then contribute to personal confidence. The only real entrance criteria is the need to have a formal Level 2 qualification in Maths and English.
• Advanced Learning: Level 7 apprenticeships integrate master's level coursework with practical experience. For fresh graduates or aspiring managers, this combination fosters a real life understanding of theoretical concepts, while developing practical skills that are immediately applicable in the workplace.
• Debt-Free Education: Unlike traditional post-graduate studies that can often result in substantial debt, an apprenticeship provides the unique advantage of continued earning while you are learning.
• Increased Employability: Gain sector-specific skills and recognised qualifications to enhance your employability and possibly your job security. Apprentices develop a versatile skill set that aligns with the needs of their chosen profession, making them potentially attractive candidates for a variety of roles.
• Career Networking: Apprenticeships often provide access to a network of similar sector professionals. For someone starting or looking to establish their career, building relationships with mentors, peers, and potential employers can open doors to future job opportunities.

For Experienced Professionals: Elevate Your Career

• Skill Enhancement: Even seasoned professionals benefit from expanding their skill set. A Level 7 apprenticeship offers an opportunity to learn advanced and specialised skills that can lead to career advancement or even a transition into a new role or industry.
• Up-to-Date Knowledge: In a fast-paced  sector, such as healthcare, staying current is vital. Apprenticeships ensure that professionals remain informed about the latest trends, technologies, and practices - essential for doing a good job now as well anticipating any future changes.
• Career Progression: For those looking to climb the career ladder, a Level 7 apprenticeship can provide the necessary qualifications and confidence to pursue higher-level positions. This can include managerial roles, leadership positions, or specialist roles that require advanced qualifications.
• Employer-Sponsored Growth: Many employers view apprenticeships as a win-win, as they can cultivate and retain talent by investing in their employees' education. This investment often results in better job performance and loyalty, creating a positive cycle of growth for both the employee and the organisation.

Bridging Theory and Practice

A standout feature of Level 7 apprenticeships is their ability to bridge the gap between educational study and the workplace.

Traditional education often emphasises theoretical knowledge, whereas apprenticeships focus on practical application. This dual approach ensures that apprentices not only understand the theory but can also adeptly apply it in real-world scenarios. The intention being that all learning is achieved with an individual’s normal working hours.

This sounds like a real opportunity – what do I need to do before it may be too late?

To find out more have a look HERE at our Level 7 Apprenticeships or if you would prefer to talk this through then click HERE to arrange a call back from Helen.