What do Einstein, Tony Stark and Doc from Back to the Future have in common? They’re all masters of STEM subjects! Despite what movies (and history lessons!) tell you, you don’t have to be a mega genius to pursue a career in STEM – there’s something for everyone.
In this guide, we’ll explain what STEM apprenticeships are, the different types, and how you can secure your place today.
What are STEM apprenticeships?
STEM stands for Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics. Basically, a STEM apprenticeship is an apprenticeship in one of these fields. Like other apprenticeship opportunities, you’ll split your time between on-the-job experience (80%) and academic training (20%).
Types of STEM apprenticeships
Here are some examples of STEM apprenticeships to help you understand what’s out there:
- Science: Laboratory technician, research assistant and environmental science.
- Technology: Software development, cybersecurity, data science and IT support.
- Engineering: Civil, mechanical, electrical, aerospace and chemical engineering.
- Mathematics: Actuarial science, data analysis and accounting.
STEM apprenticeships you can get this year
We’ve scoured the web to find the most in-demand STEM apprenticeships around this year.
Science
Vets4Pets – Level 3 Veterinary Nurse Apprenticeship
If you love furry friends more than humans, this one’s for you. Kickstart your veterinary care apprenticeship with this Level 3 apprenticeship, where you’ll gain clinical experience and become a Registered Veterinary Nurse at the end.
Technology
Amazon – Level 6 Data Analyst Apprenticeship
Amazon is every tech guru’s dream employer. At the end of this 36-month Level 6 apprenticeship, you’ll earn a BSc (Hons) in Digital & Technology Solutions – yep, that’s a real degree! Plus, when you’re done, you’ll be qualified to apply for a full-time data analyst role at Amazon.
Engineering
Rolls-Royce – Engineering Degree Apprenticeship
Behind Rolls-Royce’s glitz and glam is a team of super talented engineers. During this apprenticeship, you’ll earn an amazing £20,735 while working in the engineering department – and graduate with a BEng degree.
Mathematics
Aviva – Level 4 Risk Operations Apprenticeship
One of the best (and highest-paid) jobs for maths fans is becoming an actuary. To start your career, look no further than an actuarial-style risk management apprenticeship with insurance giant Aviva. This 15-month course will equip you with all the skills to progress as an actuary.
Top tips for securing a STEM apprenticeships
Try your best in STEM subjects
Duh! Try your best to achieve good GCSEs in science, IT, engineering and maths. Make sure you choose STEM subjects during your GCSE options and A-Levels, such as physics, chemistry, computer science or product design.
Do some personal projects
If you have the time and resources at home, you can start your own projects. What about coding a basic game or building a simple robot? It’ll be loads of fun, and you can showcase the project in your portfolio.
Build your portfolio
… which brings us swiftly to the next essential tip: building a portfolio. It’s basically a collection of all your best work. You can include personal projects (as we mentioned earlier), school projects and work experience.
Volunteer wherever possible
Build a super powerful CV by doing as many STEM-related volunteering opportunities as possible. It’s as simple as offering to tutor younger students in maths or helping at the science fair. If your school lacks volunteering opportunities, why not create them yourself? Speak to your teachers about setting up something new, like a lunchtime science or engineering club.
Secure an internship
It’s unlikely that you’ll find paid work experience if you’re still in school, but you can apply for unpaid internships. These opportunities will look fantastic on your CV, and you’ll gain valuable insights into the real world of work.
Focus on your soft skills
STEM is about more than just practical work. You also need to put plenty of effort into building your ‘soft’ skills to secure a competitive STEM apprenticeship. These are the skills that help you better communicate and work with others, including:
- Communication skills: Practice communicating complex ideas clearly and concisely, such as putting more effort into your essays and speaking up in class.
- Teamwork: Participate in group projects or extracurricular activities to demonstrate your ability to collaborate effectively with others.
- Problem-solving: Develop your critical thinking and problem-solving skills through academic challenges, puzzles or online courses.
Build your CV
Every single STEM apprenticeship will ask to see your CV, so you’ve got to make sure it’s excellent quality. See our latest blog for seven tips on how to make your apprentice CV stand out.
Keep going!
One thing about STEM apprenticeships is that they’re super competitive. Therefore, applying for multiple opportunities is best rather than putting your eggs in one basket. If you get rejected, don’t feel disheartened – use the experience as a learning curve. Here are three things you should do if you don’t get the job:
- Make a note of the rejection and when you can apply again for that particular apprenticeship. Using a spreadsheet is helpful.
- Ask the apprenticeship or employer for feedback on your application or interview.
- Collect all the feedback into a document, then carefully consider how to implement it. For example, do you need to ask a teacher to help you with interview prep? Do you need to find some volunteering opportunities so your experience is more relevant to your chosen industry?
Your future in STEM – make it happen
There are loads of STEM apprenticeships out there, and the perfect opportunity for you is right around the corner. Browse the UK’s top opportunities at Deloitte, Google, PwC and more.
