Meteoric rise for engineering apprenticeships 03 March 2014

More than twice as many young people are taking engineering apprenticeships than degree courses, according to the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET) at the start of National Apprenticeship Week (3—7 March 2014).

Figures from the Skills Funding Agency show that in 2012—13, 66,410 started an apprenticeship in engineering and manufacturing technologies, while 27,155 were accepted onto engineering higher education courses, according to UCAS.

Indeed, EEF, the manufacturers' organisation, says that six in 10 UK manufacturers have taken on an engineering and manufacturing apprentice in the last 12 months. And it suggests that over the next 12 months, more than two-thirds of manufacturers plan to recruit engineering and manufacturing apprentices.

"With a university degree costing £27,000 in fees alone and no guarantee of a job, apprenticeships are more popular than ever with young people," concludes Michelle Richmond, IET membership director and herself a former apprentice (pictured).

"Engineering is one of few professions where there is a range of entry routes for young people to become a professional engineer. And with the recent Government Trailblazer initiative ... we can only expect apprenticeships to go from strength to strength," she adds.

"Apprenticeship programmes create a pipeline of exceptionally talented young engineers," comments Nigel Whitehead, BAE Systems group managing director for programmes and support.

"In tough economic times it is even more important that businesses plan for the long term and continue to invest in skills and developing talent in the workplace."

"Apprenticeships have the potential to address the skills gap facing the sector as the need to change and adapt becomes vital for the industry's growth and development," says Peter Winebloom, EEF's director of apprentice & skills.

"As well as bringing fresh talent to fill new and critical roles, apprenticeships provide a positive and valuable starting point in the careers of many young people, while employers are able to benefit from a keen, ready to learn individual who has the potential to grow and develop within their organisation," he adds.

Brian Tinham

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