Foreign Languages Apprenticeships
What are the best apprenticeships for people who are good at Foreign Languages?
Do you pick up different languages easily? Can you hear and replicate pronunciations?
An apprenticeship using foreign languages could be perfecto!
Why is a grasp of Foreign Languages beneficial for apprenticeships?
Having an ear for languages is a highly marketable skill that is in demand around the world.
Global companies often work across several locations in different countries and need to be able to communicate clearly with staff and customers.
With an increase in remote working following the pandemic, more and more businesses are hiring overseas workers. Sometimes, a language barrier can cause problems.
Employing someone who can speak and write in multiple languages is a real asset in many businesses, no matter which industry.
If you can master multiple languages, you will always have a leg up on the competition. A foreign-language-based apprenticeship can help you hone and apply your skills in a real-world setting.
Transferable skills
There’s a difference between passing a written or oral exam in a foreign language and applying it in business. Thankfully, it is not a big leap between the two.
Practice makes perfect, and speaking and writing frequently in a foreign language will help it to become more natural.
Your listening skills are as important as your written and verbal skills, so practice using audio tapes and interactive apps. Even better if you can regularly converse with a native speaker.
Intermediate roles
Somewhat confusingly, intermediate or level 2 is the first level of UK apprenticeships. Also known as ‘entry-level’ apprenticeships, they are designed to help school leavers get a foot in the door of their chosen industry.
Usually working on an 80% practical work and 20% study basis, they give young people and those wishing for a career change hands-on experience and a steady wage while they study for the necessary industry qualifications.
Entry Requirements
The basic requirements to be eligible for a UK apprenticeship are:
- You must be 16 or older
- You must not be in full-time education
- You must be a UK citizen for at least 3 years and have the right to work
Typically, you will also need good GCSE (or equivalent) marks in Maths and English.
Other requirements will depend heavily on your employer, the industry and your role.
Qualifications gained
Upon completion of an intermediate apprenticeship, you will have earned the equivalent of 5 good GCSE passes.
Some interesting foreign-language-based intermediate UK programmes include:
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Advanced/Higher/Degree targeted at A-Level
Levels 3, 4-5 and 6-7 are Advanced, Higher, and degree-level apprenticeships.
Entry Requirements
To apply for an advanced apprenticeship, you will need either good GCSEs or have completed an intermediate apprenticeship in a relevant subject. Higher and degree apprenticeships usually require A-levels or an advanced apprenticeship.
Again, other requirements are determined by the company you work for and industry standards.
Qualifications gained
For an advanced apprenticeship, you will earn two good GCSE passes. A higher apprenticeship gains you the equivalent of a foundation degree, and a degree apprenticeship can earn you a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree.
Some foreign-language-based advanced+ UK apprenticeships that may be of interest include:
Industry Focus
Although being bilingual or multilingual is useful in most businesses, there are some roles and industries where it is particularly important, including:
Whether it is translating in person in real time or translating written text such as a novel or instructions, there is a high demand for interpreters.
You could work freelance for private clients, in court, a police station, a hospital or in the public sector.
Some industries where translators are required include:
- Politics
- Law
- Healthcare
- Civil service
- Publishing
- Tourism
- HR
- Social care
Besides a natural affinity for foreign languages, you’ll need a strong grasp of English, excellent attention to detail and adaptability.
Sitting under the umbrella term of ‘hospitality apprenticeships’, travel and tourism encompasses many roles, from hotel management to travel consultants.
Some roles involve travelling to other countries or dealing with clients and customers who may not speak English while staying close to home.
Either way, facilitating two-way communication engenders trust and enables smooth service.
Companies such as Hilton, Hays Travel, and Jet2 offer apprenticeships.
Encompassed under ‘transport’ aviation apprenticeships coverv everything from aircraft engineering to cabin crew.
It is the latter we are concerned with today, plus pilots and travel agents.
There is an obvious advantage for people in these roles to be able to speak multiple languages. Colleagues and customers may not speak your native language, leading to potential misunderstandings. Having a basic grasp of several languages ensures efficiency and camaraderie.
Big names, including British Airways, TUI and Virgin Atlantic, offer related apprenticeships.
Other Opportunities
Other roles you could consider, include:
- Teaching a foreign language
- Teaching English as a foreign language
- Secret service operative
- Marketing Executive
- Website translation
Conclusion
The ability to understand and be understood in multiple languages lends itself to many occupations and can enable travel and adventure within your career.
A foreign-language-based apprenticeship can help you channel your talent into an exciting and varied career.
To learn more about foreign language apprenticeships in your area, you can search on our site.
If you have any other queries, please let us know!
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