Deciding on future career moves can be overwhelming for students, especially after receiving A level exam results.

Many assume that the only options are to go straight to university or to leave education and get a job, without knowing exactly what sort of career they want. But an increasing number are choosing an apprenticeship, and Gloucestershire College is providing a range of opportunites from Level 2 up to Level 6 (dependent on subject), which is equivalent to a degree, without the debt of going to university.

Apprenticeships and courses include Accounting, Business, Business Administration, Cyber, Engineering, HR, Law, Leadership and Development, Construction and the Built Environment, Electrician and Marketing.

Andy Bates, chief financial officer at Gloucestershire College, said: "We are very proud to offer such a great apprenticeship provision here at GC and promote apprenticeships as a choice for all. Gloucestershire College won the 2017 AoC Beacon Award for the Delivery and Promotion of Successful Apprenticeships, and Training Provider of the Year in the Gloucestershire Apprenticeship Awards.

"We are happy to be support the initiative of keeping young talent in our county and hope that this will make an impact to the 2050 vision of Gloucestershire."

According to the college, the average student debt after graduating is around £50,000. This includes the £9000 a year tuition fees, and then any maintenance loans used for accommodation, food and general life. "With Gloucestershire College Apprenticeships, the student will be getting the valuable work experience that gives them all the skills and competencies to be ready for the working world, while getting paid."

The college has worked with local employers for decades and has developed strong links with over 1, 000 Gloucestershire businesses, including Superdry, Reinshaw, GE Aviation and Omega. The Employer Recruitment Service matches the student's apprenticeship requirments and skill set to the right employer.

For more information and to apply for apprenticeships at Gloucestershire College, visit: www.gloscol.ac.uk/sixth-form-apprenticeships.