A recent analysis of Google search trends has shown that interest in apprenticeships has reached unprecedented levels, with online searches for the term “apprenticeship” hitting their highest point ever in 2024.
Since Google began tracking search data in 2004, searches for apprenticeships have surged by an astonishing 614 percent.
This significant increase, uncovered through research by experts at QR Code Generator, suggests a growing shift in students’ attitudes towards higher education. Compared to 20 years ago, students today appear more willing to consider alternatives to traditional university education.
Throughout the 2000s, the search volume for “apprenticeship” remained relatively stable, only beginning to rise steadily from early 2011. This upward trend has continued, with February 2024 marking the peak of search interest.
What does the future look like?
Marc Porcar, CEO of QR Code Generator, commented on the findings: “It’s encouraging to see such a dramatic rise in interest in apprenticeships, reflecting a shift in how students view their career paths. With university no longer seen as the only route to success, more young people are exploring practical, hands-on training opportunities that can lead directly to skilled employment.”
Porcar added that this trend underscores the growing recognition of the value apprenticeships offer, both for individuals seeking real-world experience and for industries in need of a skilled workforce.
Amelia Brand is the Editor for HRreview, and host of the HR in Review podcast series. With a Master’s degree in Legal and Political Theory, her particular interests within HR include employment law, DE&I, and wellbeing within the workplace. Prior to working with HRreview, Amelia was Sub-Editor of a magazine, and Editor of the Environmental Justice Project at University College London, writing and overseeing articles into UCL’s weekly newsletter. Her previous academic work has focused on philosophy, politics and law, with a special focus on how artificial intelligence will feature in the future.
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