The Decline of Apprenticeships: Why Are Fewer People Interested?

Apprenticeships have long been a gateway into skilled professions, offering hands-on experience, industry connections, and a clear career path. However, recent data suggests a worrying decline in apprenticeship participation. With industries facing skills shortages and young people struggling to find stable careers, why are fewer individuals choosing apprenticeships?

 

Declining Interest in Apprenticeships: The Numbers

A 2023 report from the UK Government’s Department for Education revealed a drop in apprenticeship starts, with numbers decreasing from 393,400 in 2016/17 to just 349,200 in 2021/22. This decline comes despite efforts to promote apprenticeships as a valuable alternative to university education.

In contrast, university enrolments have remained strong, with over 560,000 students starting undergraduate courses in 2022, according to UCAS. This suggests that many young people still perceive higher education as the superior option.

 

 

Factors Behind the Decline in Apprenticeship Uptake

Several key factors contribute to the reduced interest in apprenticeships:

Perception and Prestige

University degrees are often viewed as more prestigious than apprenticeships, particularly among parents and educators. A 2022 study by the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD) found that 47% of young people were encouraged to pursue university, while only 20% were advised to consider an apprenticeship.

 

Lower Wages for Apprentices

While apprenticeships offer the advantage of earning while learning, wages remain significantly lower than graduate salaries. In the UK, the minimum apprentice wage is £5.28 per hour as of 2023, compared to the national minimum wage of £10.42 for those aged 23 and over. Many young people opt for university in hopes of securing a higher salary in the long term.

Limited Awareness and Accessibility

Despite government funding and incentives for businesses, many employers fail to promote apprenticeship opportunities effectively. The Apprenticeship Levy, introduced in 2017, was designed to increase apprenticeship funding, but many companies report challenges in navigating the system.

The Impact of COVID-19

The pandemic disrupted apprenticeship programmes, with many employers pausing hiring and training. A report from the Learning and Work Institute found that apprenticeship starts fell by 18% in 2020/21, and recovery has been slow.

 

 

Why Apprenticeships Still Matter

Despite these challenges, apprenticeships remain a crucial part of the workforce. They provide:

  • Practical experience in industries facing severe skills shortages, such as engineering, manufacturing, and construction.
  • Reduced student debt, as apprentices earn while learning rather than accumulating university fees.
  • High employability, with 91% of apprentices remaining in employment or further training after completion.

 

The Role of Recruitment in Promoting Apprenticeships

As a recruitment specialist in technical industries, VHR works closely with businesses to develop apprenticeship schemes that benefit both employers and young professionals. By partnering with organisations, we help streamline hiring processes and ensure apprentices receive the necessary training for long-term career success.