Studying for a degree (fund it via SFE) and been offered an interview

Heya
So, I’m currently studying for a degree with the OU, I currently work retail but looking for another job. I’ve been given an interview to do a level 3 apprenticeship at my local university. It’s only really dawned on me and made me think that there could be an implication, assuming I get this apprenticeship job? It’s nothing to do with my degree, but sounds interesting. However, I fund my degree via SFE. Does anyone know if it is possible to still continue doing my degree, still fund it through SFE (that’s the only way I’m able to do my degree as I’m not able to afford to pay it myself) and take on an apprenticeship job assuming I get it after the interview? I’m thinking of asking the interviewer if it’s possible to do both and if there’s any implications if they offer me the job and I accept. I’m feeling a tad hesitant now about wanting to do this interview because of this thought. I have tried googling but doesn’t seem 100% clear (unless I just haven’t worded it well when googling). If all goes well, I’m set to graduate 2026.
Apologies for asking a silly question, and any advice is appreciated as I feel somewhat confused, and of course at the time of applying didn’t think about it.
I have tried looking for an answer on my account for SFE, but couldn’t see anything

Hiya,
Regarding SFE, the best thing is to contact them and ask directly.
If you are looking to work in an apprentice role, you need to know that it is not just a job but a whole other degree/qualification (depending on what apprenticeship you have applied to). It is not normally recommended that you complete an apprenticeship alongside a regular degree - students typically choose one or the other. Especially considering they may both be full-time roles and the hours would likely overlap.
Because I don't know the specifics, I cannot say outright but just generally speaking, apprenticeships are for people who are not completing degrees at university or have not yet completed their degree and are looking to change their course. If you are interested in the apprenticeship role it might be worth considering that you apply for a job in a similar field post-graduation. An apprenticeship is not a replacement for a part-time job but if you are interested in the role it might be worth looking into it further.
I would really recommend talking to a career advisor for some support on this matter. Here's a link to the OU's support services: https://help.open.ac.uk/about-the-careers-and-employability-service. You can book a book a one-on-one careers consultation.
I hope this helps; please let me know if you need any further support.
Happy holidays! 🙂

Hello
I spoke to SFE who’ve said I won’t get funding if I do go for it, so with drew from the interview.
Happy holidays

Hiya,
I'm sorry it didn't work out for you but hopefully, it's all for the best.
I've had a look online for you regarding part-time jobs and found this discussion on TSR about jobs while at university: https://www.thestudentroom.co.uk/showthread.php?t=7315910.
The Complete University Guide also has some good recommendations worth looking into: https://www.thecompleteuniversityguide.co.uk/student-advice/after-you-start/student-jobs.
Personally, I would highly recommend finding an on-campus role like being a Student Ambassador as these are normally 0-hour contracts and very flexible around your schedule.
Good luck with the job hunt!

Thank you, though my current job is a zero hours contract and want to move away from that type of contract as I hate going week to week worrying about what hours I’ll be getting and what my wages will look like at the end of each month

Oh I understand, it may be good to look into student-friendly jobs then. Most students work in retail or waiter roles as these can be part-time and during your days off from university so it doesn't interfere with your studies.
Tutoring is also an option, and if you would like to have contracted hours, it would be good to look into working for a tuition centre.
Save the Student lists jobs available here.
I hope this helps 🙂
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SOAS Student Rep