. It also highlights significant disparities between the number of over 25s and the number of younger people taking on apprenticeships. Whilst it is clear that employers are embracing the opportunity to take on older apprentices, too few school leavers are entering into them. It is crucial that more support is found to support this group into the qualification. This will guarantee that the UK has the skills base needed for the economy of the future.
“Progress is being made, however, with myths that apprenticeships are a substandard career choice for a school leaver being broken down piece by piece. There is growing recognition that apprenticeships are increasingly high-quality and can offer young people competitive and rewarding career paths. In fact, our latest research report, Building Better Apprenticeships found a 14% increase in young people considering a construction apprenticeship (62%) compared with last year.
“With GCSE and A Level results just around the corner, employers and teachers alike need to place even more emphasis on actively talking about the different range of career options available and the benefits of undertaking an apprenticeship. Our survey data found that only 27% of young people felt they had received high quality careers advice, information and guidance on a wide range of careers from their respective schools. Improving careers advice is a further step that will ensure young people are aware of all their options.”
Apprenticeship and levy statistics: June 2018
- There were a total of 23,900 apprenticeship starts in March, down by 52 per cent on the year, the steepest decline yet.
- There was a 12% increase in commitments for over 25s compared with the month prior, compared to 6% in under 25s.
