Degree Apprenticeships and My Journey at Boots UK

Apprenticeships at Boots

Apprenticeships and education at Boots have long been a part of our history, we understand the importance and value they bring both to the business and to our colleagues.   We are passionate about providing our colleagues with lots of opportunities to gain further qualifications, learn, develop and kick start or enhance their career and support the growth of our business. Apprenticeships are a great way to do this, they come in all different shapes and sizes from intermediate, advanced, higher and degree level, ranging from one to five years in duration, and across a wide range of industries.

What is a degree apprenticeship?

The highest level of an apprenticeship you can receive is a degree apprenticeship, this is a great option if university isn’t for you.  This type of apprenticeship allows you to achieve the academic study of university life, while having the opportunity to apply your learning in a paid job, without the burden of university or course fees.

Who is a degree apprenticeship for?

A degree apprenticeship can be accessed by anyone over 18 in England and it combines work with full-time study at university. By studying a degree level apprenticeship, you will work towards achieving a level 6 qualification, some apprenticeships also offer study at level 7, which is equivalent to a Master’s degree.  Most degree apprenticeships will also include professional recognition from the institute associated with the career.

Tell us a bit about the apprenticeship you have completed and the one you are doing now?

I joined Boots on a Higher Apprenticeship which required A levels. This included both working in store and a two-year long placement within the Supply Chain Department and a level 4 apprenticeship. The apprenticeship I am now completing is a Chartered Management Degree Apprenticeship which consists of completing a Management and Leadership Degree at Nottingham Trent University alongside my full-time work. To do this, I receive regular study days at university to learn the theory and my assignments are set to support learning in a business. Upon successfully finishing the scheme, I will have a BA Hons in Management and Leadership and will have achieved Chartered Manager Status.

What are the best things about your apprenticeships?

What I enjoyed about my apprenticeships was the opportunity to network with fellow apprentices and colleagues in the wider organisation. It also gave me a number of opportunities to get involved with a variety of business tasks such as working with suppliers and on projects, which meant I could make a big impact and change within Boots. It was motivating to know that the work I was doing was making a real difference.

What have you learned whilst on the apprenticeship?

I have learnt a number of new skills both through studying and from on the job experiences which has given me a well-rounded understanding of the business that I can apply to both my studies and work. The exposure gained through being on an apprenticeship scheme has enabled me to grow my confidence and improve my communication. The most important lesson I have learnt is the importance of taking opportunities and not being afraid to put yourself forward as this will only allow you to develop and learn further.

Why did you choose to do an apprenticeship with Boots?

I chose to do an apprenticeship as going to university and purely studying didn’t appeal to me. I knew I learnt best practically and the idea of studying alongside gaining real life experience and skills was perfect for me as I felt this would give me a head start in beginning my career, but also continuing to learn for my own personal development.

If you are interested in apprenticeships at Boots you can read more on our apprenticeship hub.