Make UK: Employers must promote the benefits of apprenticeships

The Government has launched its new ‘Fire it Up’ campaign in accordance with NAW, and it is now an ideal time for manufacturing employers to sell their apprenticeships to the next generation.

Almost eight in ten manufacturers are currently offering apprenticeships, meaning the doors to learners of all ages are open to those wanting to earn while they learn. School leavers and those already in the workplace alike can find the perfect training tailored to their individual needs through apprenticeships.

Apprentices can progress from the shop floor to the top floor with apprenticeship opportunities starting from intermediate level all the way up to degree or post-graduate level, meaning learners can gain degree level qualifications without acquiring a penny of debt.

Manufacturing is considered an ideal industry to choose your apprenticeship in. It is leading the fourth industrial revolution, using pioneering and cutting edge technology, applying new digital technology and techniques and working to solve the world’s grand challenges.

However, Make UK also says there is more work to do with just 6% of students at state-funded mainstream schools and colleges going onto an apprenticeship after key stage 5 compared to 50% that went on to a UK higher education institution (DFE, 2018). There is also an urgent need to tackle the gender imbalance with women making up less than 9% of STEM Apprenticeships, meaning 9 in 10 STEM apprenticeships are undertaken by men (WISE, 2017).

Verity Davidge, head of education and skills policy at Make UK said: “Long gone are the days when academic pathways such as university were the only options for bright, talented young people. Apprenticeships are now firmly and proudly in the spotlight and manufacturers have plans to increase the number of apprenticeships within their business.

“National Apprenticeship Week is the perfect platform for manufacturers to be shouting from the rooftops about the opportunities within our vibrant and innovative sector. From shop floor to top floor, manufacturers are investing in the next generation of innovators, creators and makers through apprenticeships.”

Make UK www.makeuk.org