Data on applications for official loans has shown that only 77 adults have applied for apprenticeships out of the expected number of 25,000 so far this academic year.

Roz McKenzie, course leader for the programme at Lambeth College, said: “Providing an alternative route into journalism should help bring media organisations closer to their readers and listeners through increased representation in the newsroom.”

Richard Holway says: “Employers have a duty to young people; rather than ignore youth unemployment, they should address it head on.”

Here are three top tips to ensure that motivation levels are kept high throughout their apprenticeship, which will hopefully improve company loyalty.

Skills Minister Matthew Hancock, said: “It was fantastic to swap jobs with Jenny, and understand first-hand what it is like to be an apprentice.”

Training provider Paragon Skills has estimated that it will save around a quarter of a million pounds by using online tools to deliver its apprenticeships. It will use Virtual College’s learning management system and e-learning resources with Smart Assessor’s e-portfolio.