As thousands of teenagers across the West Midlands await their GCSE and A-level results over the next two weeks, a Birmingham apprentice is urging other young people to consider their full range of options.

Fyzan Azzam, 21 from Dudley, is currently studying a Level 3 Digital Marketing Apprenticeship, as part of the BBC Apprentice Hub.

He said: “After finishing college, I was unsure about the idea of going to university, it just didn’t seem like the right fit for me. I started researching alternatives and that’s when I came across apprenticeships. They really caught my attention because I would be getting valuable work experience whilst studying for a recognised qualification. Not only that, but I would also be earning a salary. After seeing this, I instantly knew that an apprenticeship was something I wanted to pursue.

“I’ve only been in my apprenticeship for just over a month, but already I’ve learnt so much. For those people who don’t know what their next step may be, I would say definitely explore your options. Everyone’s situation is different, but there are plenty of benefits to apprenticeships.

“The most important thing is to pick what works for you and what makes you happy. There are a huge variety of apprenticeships, from different levels of qualifications in a variety of industries and job types, so it really is worth researching.”

Apprenticeships offer a great route into work and higher-level roles for school leavers, graduates and those looking for a change of career.  

The West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) is working with partners to help more local employers take on apprentices or train their existing workers in new roles. Employers who do this say they gain significant business benefits including increased productivity and the generation of new ideas.  

Andy Street, Mayor of the West Midlands, said: “Apprenticeships are a great option for young people as an alternative to college or university. They offer the opportunity to earn while you learn and gain a valuable qualification at the end. Inspiring success stories like Fyzan illustrate the power of the apprenticeship model.

“A key part of my mayoral mission is to help create new opportunities for young people as part of my 100k jobs plan. That’s why I’m so pleased that we’ve been able to work with a range of partners to do just that.

“I’d like to thank all of the employers who are helping us to establish new apprenticeship avenues right across our region that equip local residents with the skills local businesses need to thrive as we bounce back from the setback of Covid.

“I would encourage large employers in the West Midlands that are yet to spend all of their apprenticeship levy to get in touch with us and find out how we can help – not to mention local SMEs that might consider taking on new apprentices. I cannot wait to see our innovative skills and educational provision changing lives for the better.”

Cllr George Duggins, leader of Coventry City Council and WMCA portfolio holder for productivity and skills, added: “We know that young people have been amongst the hardest hit by the fallout of the coronavirus pandemic, and we’re working with our partners to create new opportunities for them. Apprenticeships are a great alternative to education or college, offering qualifications up to degree level.

“We are determined to give young people the best possible start to their career and there are lots of opportunities available now across the region."

For more information about opportunities available for young people across the region, visit the Youth Employment Platform at https://www.youthemployment.org.uk/employment-help-young-people/youth-friendly-places-in-the-uk/west-midlands/