Survey ‘shows high value of apprenticeships’

Apprenticeships are succeeding in improving the workplace inclusion of young people, a new survey suggests.

A poll of 5,000 apprentices found that almost nine in ten (89 per cent) were satisfied with their experience, rising to 92 per cent amongst those who stayed in the apprenticeship until its completion.

More importantly, apprenticeships appear to be helping young people to develop the skills they need to succeed in the workplace and climb the career ladder.

One third of those who had finished their apprenticeship had received a promotion, the survey revealed, and of those in work, three quarters reported taking on more responsibility in their job.

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Eight out of ten apprentices polled said that the experience had improved their ability to do their job, provided them with sector-relevant skills and knowledge, and improved their career prospects.

The government’s skills minister John Hayes said the survey showed the value of offering high quality apprenticeship opportunities to young people.

“We are succeeding in making apprenticeships a gold standard option for ambitious young people and sending a crystal clear message that technical excellence is as essential and highly valued as academic prowess,” he commented.

Meanwhile, a second survey revealed that apprenticeships are similarly popular among employers.

Nine in ten (88 per cent) said they were satisfied with the apprenticeship scheme, while 85 per cent were satisfied with the quality of the training provided by their provider.

Nearly half (47 per cent) of employers had already recommended apprenticeships to other organisations.

David Way, chief executive of the National Apprenticeship Service, commented: “We are very pleased to see high levels of satisfaction amongst employers and apprentices in these surveys.

“These findings will inform our work as we continue to raise standards and focus on ensuring that all apprenticeships offer a good experience as well as encouraging more young people and employers of all sizes and sectors to engage.”