Uni is out, these alternatives are in...

Hey parents and teachers,

September is here, so you’re either supporting those who have left school and are still making career decisions, or supporting those embarking on their final years of education and considering ‘what next?’

While university is a common path, it’s not as prevalent as it used to be. Today degrees are mandatory in only a few careers; medical, law, education, and some engineering and architecture fields.

In fact, around 70% of young people won’t be heading to university, and will be seeking alternatives. Today, I’m shedding light on two alternatives to university pathways for your young adults.

Here’s why exploring alternatives to uni is beneficial:

Simply, fewer careers require a degree today!

The proportion of entry-level jobs referencing a degree has dropped by 31% since 2019, and just 22% of junior positions now require them. This trend highlights the growing emphasis on skills and practical experience over formal education.

?? Skills and Experience: Employers are seeking entry-level staff who have personal qualities and soft skills such as communication, work ethic, resilience, desire to learn, and problem-solving skills more so than formal education.

?? Cost-Effective: University debt is crippling! The average debt for Welsh graduates in 2023 was a staggering ￡35,780. The debt grows faster than inflation and faster than most graduates can repay. The average debt after 5 years grows to ￡50,800. Ploughing over ￡50k into a 3-year degree to meet the requirements of just 22% of roles doesn’t seem like a good return on investment.

?? Flexible Pathways: Non-university options, I’ll explore here an in the next edition, offer greater flexibility in learning and career choices, which is beneficial in today’s rapidly evolving job market.

Today lets consider these 2 options:

?? Option 1: Apprenticeships

Apprenticeships offer an opportunity to ‘earn while you learn’, gaining valuable workplace experience and get recognised qualification.

• What are Apprenticeships? An apprenticeship combines practical work with study. Apprentices work alongside experienced staff to gain job-specific skills and spend time with a training provider to work towards a related qualification.
• Industries Available: In Wales, apprenticeships are available in various sectors including engineering, healthcare, digital, media and business.

How to Get Started? I’ve listed clear actions here, and we share the best ones we find on our social channels @mifutureHQ ?? – make sure you are following us there.

?? Option 2: College Courses

Colleges have begun aligning their course offerings with local emerging, growth, and priority sectors. These are the local sectors that are growing and where job opportunities and high-valued roles are more abundant than some others that are in decline, and is a great way for students who want to explore learning through full-time, part-time, or a shorter bootcamp style.

Crucially, colleges are offering a cost-effective way of exploring skill-based learning like Coding, Cloud, Data, Creative, Media, Production etc.

• Hands-On Learning: Vocational training involves more practical, hands-on experience compared to traditional academic routes. This helps students develop specific skills that employers are looking for.
• Hyper-local Focus: Many colleges in Wales have strong ties with local employers and sector leaders, ensuring students have the chance to engage with potential employers during their learning.

How to Get Started? Check out your local college course directory. We also share the best ones, particularly aligned to in-demand skills, on our social channels @mifutureHQ ?? – make sure you are following us there.

Thank you for reading!

I hope this provides valuable insights into the alternatives to university available for your young people.

?? Keep an eye out for the next article from me; where I try my best to cut out the crap and give it to you straight whilst sharing the importance of Soft Skills and Digital Skills for the next generation of careers.

If I can be of any more help on this, let me know.

You've got this ????

Gem Hallett, miFuture Founder

miFuture.co.uk| @miFutureHQ