This National Apprenticeship Week, we're highlighting the value of apprenticeships in creating pathways into work for women with convictions, and how they help employers develop truly talented teams.
Creating opportunities and overcoming barriers
Women who have received a conviction sometimes have gaps in their work history, which can mean that training or experience they had before their conviction needs updating. For women who have unfinished qualifications, or aren’t able to return to their previous job because of their conviction, going straight into work can feel intimidating. Apprenticeships offer a way to bridge these gaps and explore new industries.
For women with convictions
Choosing a career path isn’t always straightforward and with so much choice, it can be confusing to find the right course. That’s where we come in. For women with convictions, being a productive member of society helps rebuild confidence and develop a more positive self-image. At the same time earning an income is an important part of this journey, which is why apprenticeships allow women to earn while they learn.
Apprenticeships start at Level 2 (GCSE equivalent) and go up to Level 7 (Master’s degree), with opportunities across a wide range of sectors. Some of the exciting apprenticeships on offer from well-known employers include:
- Costume maker – Royal Opera House
- Zookeeper – Zoological Society London
- Production apprentice – BBC
At Working Chance, we support women every step of the way, helping them find the right course and level, opening real pathways into work and learning. We partner with over 130 employers in a wide range of sectors across England and Wales to give women with convictions clear guidance and support into employment, education, and training, including apprenticeships.
Benefits for employers
Creating apprenticeships is good for business, as it brings in talented people and offers an opportunity to promote inclusion and social responsibility.
Women with convictions are loyal and tend to stay in jobs longer than people who don’t have a conviction. In addition to the social value for employers, hiring apprentices is a cost-effective way to develop a motivated and loyal workforce.
Having a diverse and motivated team is great for organisational culture, in fact 69% of organisations that invest in apprenticeships report an improvement in staff retention.
Partnering for change
Apprenticeships have benefits for organisations and women with convictions alike, offering amazing opportunities and career growth.
If your organisation is interested in offering apprenticeships or other inclusive opportunities, get in touch with Working Chance to find out how working together can create real impact. Or if you’re a woman with a conviction wanting to explore the range of apprenticeships, we can help you take the next step.
