Speaking of which, if anyone is reading this from the UK, and has an ~ 18 year old who doesn't want to go to university, BAE are recruiting heavily for apprenticeships. They are very serious about providing a 'university alternative'. I suggest taking a look.
IMO this makes a strong case for working with small companies. Big companies are relatively risk averse and will look for external validation of the candidate - certifications, degrees, impressive prior experience, etc.
It's much easier for a young person lacking experience today to approach a small business and successfully pitch them on an internship or some contract work. A large corporation is too hamstrung by HR, by policy, and by its own approval chain, to take advantage of things like this.