Leaving a degree apprenticeship halfway to do a tech apprenticeship — help?

Hi,

So I’m currently about 18 months into a Mechanical Engineering degree apprenticeship and I have been feeling like it’s not for me. It’s not that I’m failing or anything, I just don’t see myself in this industry long-term and it doesn’t really match what I want to do in the future.

I’m thinking of switching into tech instead mainly DevOps or Cyber Security (but will consider programmes that are related somewhat) and applying for a Level 4 apprenticeship because I don’t think I need a degree for tech to progress and also I dont want to go through 5 years of being an apprentice.

The thing is as well I’d be applying to a new employer, not switching internally.

Has anyone done this before?

Do you just apply normally like everyone else?

Will it look bad that I’m leaving a degree apprenticeship halfway through?

What do you even say in interviews without sounding like you can’t commit?

Any advice on the best way to go about it / anything I should avoid?

Did anyone have to pay anything back (courses, certs, equipment), or is that rare?

If anyone’s been in a similar situation I’d appreciate any help because I don’t want to mess up my future options.

Thanks.