People in Glasgow are missing out on training opportunities because of misconceptions about apprenticeships, research has found.
A survey by Scottish Gas revealed that 41 per cent of Glaswegians wouldn’t consider an apprenticeship as a route to a new career, with 20 per cent believing they are too old.
Just 4 per cent in people in Glasgow thought you could start an apprenticeship in your 30s, despite the fact that almost one third of apprentices are over 30, according to the energy company.
Modern apprenticeships for all ages
But, 20 per cent of respondents said they would definitely undertake an apprenticeship, while almost a third said they would seriously consider it.
The findings of the study coincide with Scottish Apprenticeship Week, which runs until Friday and will play host to a number of events across the country to demonstrate the value of modern apprenticeships to both employers and potential trainees – of all ages.
This includes a showcase at Scottish Gas’s Hamilton Academy, aimed at promoting its own apprenticeship scheme and the range of career routes and opportunities it can open up.
‘Don’t limit your options’
A former Scottish Gas apprentice, John Lochrie, is now operations director for the company’s HomeCare Services arm. He said: “It’s clear from our research that while many people see the value in apprenticeships, they don’t necessarily realise that the training is suitable for everyone of working age – whether that’s a teenage school leaver, a mum wanting to earn while she learns, or someone looking to retrain for a new career later in life.
“People in Scotland may be limiting their options and not exploring an apprenticeship as a legitimate career route.
“At Scottish Gas, our apprentices come from all walks of life. Almost a third are over the age of 30, and many are career-changers.
“I’d encourage people to shake off the old stereotypes and consider undertaking a modern apprenticeship no matter how old they are.”
