
Money Box Money Box Live: Apprenticeships
Nov 12, 2025
In this lively discussion, Ben Rowland, Chief Executive of the Association of Employment and Learning Providers, breaks down how apprenticeships work and explains funding intricacies. Rachel Kayes, Community Manager for the Association of Apprentices, highlights crucial budgeting tips and discusses challenges faced by mature apprentices. Meanwhile, Kira Lynchie, a recent degree apprentice, shares her inspiring journey of earning while studying, emphasizing the financial rewards and opportunities that come with degree apprenticeships.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Young Tradespeople Prefer Earning Now
- Chris and other Bolton College apprentices describe earning while learning in trades like bricklaying and painting.
- They report higher pay than friends at uni and value having a trade and immediate income.
Treat Apprenticeship Interviews As Two-Way
- Ask questions and treat the interview as two-way: assess the employer and training provider.
- Specifically ask how much the employer will invest in your development before accepting an apprenticeship.
Levy Raised Quality But Cut Quantity
- Apprenticeship numbers plateaued after the levy because programmes became more rigorous.
- Higher rigour improved reputation but made apprenticeships harder to set up for some employers.

