STUDENTS are being encouraged to become apprentices and earn while they learn.

As part of National Apprenticeship Week from March 4-8, NICEIC, the leading regulatory body for registered electricians, is reminding school leavers that a career in the electrical industry is full of prosperous opportunities and benefits.

Teenagers are invited to consider an apprenticeship in the electrical trade, offering the chance to learn, grow and earn throughout the process.

NICEIC believes that learning a trade is a viable alternative to studying at university and the company is committed to attracting the next generation of talent.

Darren Staniforth, technical development manager at NICEIC, said: “We’ve seen an uptake in interest amongst pupils and students for a hands-on career.

"Gone are the days where young people are expected to study at university to ensure a successful career. Instead, taking on an apprenticeship is now being seen as a far more enticing prospect, with some going on to earn more than had they done a degree."

One way that NICEIC supports apprentices into the electrical industry is through its Apprentice of the Year competition, which celebrates the skills of the brightest electrical apprentices throughout the UK.

This year more than 1,000 apprentices applied, with 650 applicants successfully completing the first stage.

Last year’s winner Zach Swift, 21, from Scotland, is now preparing for the final year of his apprenticeship as well as returning to college to finish his electrical course.

Zach said: “I think it’s important for people my age and younger to understand that there are plenty of routes to take after leaving school or college and I strongly believe that an apprenticeship is a fantastic option if you’re after a dynamic and successful career.

“The apprenticeship competition was a great boost for my confidence and I am now able to take on more challenging jobs on my own.

"If you’re considering an apprenticeship in the electrical industry, then I would definitely recommend going for it because you’ll learn so many skills and your days will always feel varied.”