New figures released by the Department for Education during National Apprenticeship Week show a 1.3% rise in apprenticeship starts, with 132,560 new apprentices embarking on their training between August 2023 and October 2024. The figures indicate a growing interest in vocational careers, with overall apprenticeship participation increasing by 2.1%, bringing the total number of learners to 571,630.
Notably, higher apprenticeships – those at Level 6 and Level 7 – are seeing significant growth. Level 6 apprenticeships, which are equivalent to a degree, have increased by 8.1%, while Level 7 apprenticeships, similar to postgraduate qualifications, are up by 10.9%. These levels reflect the growing demand for more specialised training, especially in sectors such as healthcare, social care, and construction.
To build on this momentum, education secretary Bridget Phillipson has announced reforms aimed at cutting red tape and shortening minimum duration requirements for apprenticeships. The government estimates that these changes could support up to 10,000 more apprentices qualifying each year, addressing the skills gap in critical industries.
Data Viewpoints
Commenting on the reforms, REC director of campaigns Shazia Ejaz said:
“Shorter apprenticeships are a step in the right direction, offering more flexibility to boost economic growth.”
Welcoming the reforms, TUC general secretary Paul Nowak said:
“These changes will remove some of the barriers to apprenticeships so that more people can benefit. And by raising the skills of thousands more workers, we can boost economic growth too.”
The reforms are a step forward, but unions, businesses, and the government are now working together to ensure both the quantity and quality of apprenticeships continue to rise, supporting economic growth and the future workforce.
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