An apprenticeship allows you to complete a recognised qualification while gaining on the job experience, and is a valuable opportunity to kick-start your lifelong career.

Our goal at ApprenticeshipCentral is to provide you with the information you need to help you complete your apprenticeship and become qualified in your career of choice. Unfortunately, not every apprentice finishes their qualification, and that is why we have provided you with some useful tips to help you when you begin your apprenticeship.

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[efstoggle title=”Be Passionate About What You Do”]

One of the simplest lessons you will learn is to do what you love.

When applying for apprenticeships don’t waste your time, or the time of the employer looking for an apprentice, by applying for positions that you do not have a genuine interest in. This is one of the main reasons that apprentices cancel their apprenticeship.

Not sure what you’re interested in doing as a career?

Make a list of your interests, hobbies and activities you like to do and research what apprenticeship corresponds with your interests. ApprenticeshipCentral also provides the Harrison Assessment which is designed to help you figure out what you are good at. Click here for more information. [/efstoggle]
[efstoggle title=”Treat Your Supervisor and Other Workers With Respect and Don’t Be Afraid to Ask Questions”]

It’s always a good idea to stay on your boss’s good side. When you treat your supervisor and other workers with respect and listen when they are trying to teach you something new the reward is twofold.

Not only will it be easier for you to pick up new skills and knowledge, but the people around you will be more likely to provide you with more information and assistance. Building this relationship with your co-workers will allow you to be able to ask questions regarding your apprenticeship without feeling stupid.

There is no such thing as a stupid question, especially if you are working with specialised equipment or machinery. Get it right the first time, instead of rushing in, make sure you understand what you are expected to do.[/efstoggle]
[efstoggle title=”Learn as Much as You Can and Don’t Be Afraid of Tackling New Tasks”]

Apprenticeships are all about learning. Many apprenticeships fall apart due to the apprentice not taking the theory and training as seriously as they should. There are many reasons why apprentices fall behind in their bookwork and training, including the fear of failing and looking stupid.The great thing about failing or not understanding something is the opportunity to learn something new and exciting. It is almost impossible to learn and succeed without making a few mistakes along the way so don’t let your fear stop you. Take the opportunity to ask questions, try new things and always remember that you get better with practice! [/efstoggle]
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Employers reward workers who take initiative. If a job or task arises that you are confident in performing, don’t be shy in putting yourself forward. To achieve your goal of becoming a qualified tradesperson you need to learn and experience as much as you can.Not only is this a positive for you, but your employer as well. They hired you as an apprentice because they had a need for someone who was willing to work hard, by stepping forward you once again prove that they made the right decision in hiring you.[/efstoggle]
[efstoggle title=”Above All, Be Honest”]

Honesty is always the best policy. If you make a mistake, don’t try to hide it. It is better to own up to your mistakes and learn from them. If you try to hide your mistakes, your supervisor can’t teach you properly and you will keep making the same mistake over and over again.Your employer will appreciate your honesty, and although they may be initially frustrated by your mistake, they will realise that you are someone they can trust to do the right thing within their business.[/efstoggle]
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