Scottish Apprenticeship Week 2026 - Myth vs Fact!

Confused about apprenticeships? Not sure how to sort the myth from fact? Here are some of the most common misconceptions we hear, so for Scottish Apprenticeship Week, we debunk some of the myths ⬇️

Myth 1️⃣  Modern and Graduate Apprenticeship funding is available only for new starts who are aged 16-19

False! Funding can be used to support newly recruited staff and current staff at both modern and graduate level. However, eligibility criteria must be met for funding.

Myth 2️⃣ Modern Apprenticeships can be completed while at school using a work experience placement

False! Modern and Graduate apprentices must have reached the legal school leaving age and be in current employment and being paid in full (at least minimum wage).

However, a Foundation Apprenticeship is a subject choice that allows pupils to get real industry experience while they are still at school. Pupils can take a Foundation Apprenticeship at SCQF Level 6 in S5 or S6. They normally take up to two years to complete, and your time is spent with UHI Perth and an employer.

Myth 3️⃣ Apprenticeships are easy to gain and easy for the employer to support

False! All apprenticeship routes require a lot of time and resources from the employer, and a lot of learning from the apprentice. It’s not quick and easy, but the benefits are worth the investment.

Myth 4️⃣ UHI Perth is responsible for training the apprentice the skills required and finding the supporting evidence to build the portfolio

This is a shared responsibility between the employer and UHI Perth Assessor. Employers support all training needed, with the guidance from a UHI Perth Assessor. Some courses require college attendance to gain the academic award.

Myth 5️⃣ Apprentices are only employed within your workplace for the duration of the programme

False! Apprentices are supported and trained to meet your establishment skills and business needs. This allows them to be a part of your future workforce and business growth. Apprentices’ and current staff make good colleagues and support each other in different ways.

Myth 6️⃣ Apprentices earn less than someone with a degree

False! Traditionally, people would assume that university graduates earn more than apprentices. However, current data indicates this is no longer a universal rule. The earnings gap has closed, and for higher-level apprenticeships, in particular, pay is often comparable to or higher than that of graduates. 

A Graduate Apprenticeship is a job with learning up to master’s degree level. Graduate Apprentices spend most of their time learning on the job while being supported by a structured learning programme working towards a degree qualification. The integration of work and learning counts towards the qualification, meaning that attendance at university can be flexible, based on the employer’s requirements. Completion time of the qualification can take between two to five years depending on the level of qualification.

Whether you are a young person looking for an apprenticeship, or an employer who is keen to train and develop staff, our business team can guide you. Find out more >>