New research from vocational qualification provider NCFE has highlighted a knowledge gap around post-school options, as just 18% of 18-24 year olds would even consider undertaking an apprenticeship.
The study highlights a significant need for improved information on the value of apprenticeships if the Conservatives’ ambitious 3m apprenticeships by 2020, or Labour’s extra 80,000 new apprenticeships a year, are to be realised.
The survey found a lack of awareness at school level was partly to blame for the disinterest in apprenticeships. Nearly a quarter (24%) of respondents said they were not fully informed of their options following school, with more than a third (36%) believing teachers were too focused on final grades, and failed to care what they did when they left school (25%).
David Grailey, Chief Executive at NCFE said: “The survey clearly shows a huge disconnect in the minds of young people. Tackling youth unemployment is their biggest concern, yet they do not appear to share the same faith in apprenticeships as government parties. More alarmingly, a large portion of school leavers are not being made fully aware about the options available to them after secondary school.
“At NCFE, we see first-hand the benefits apprenticeships bring to both young people looking to succeed in the workplace and also to employers. The future government must do more to support schools in doing all they can to properly inform students of the benefits of all forms of further education and vocational training, and the career paths that can follow.”
