Apprenticeships “ the career choice that is overlooked by too many young people”

1. Apprenticeships “the career choice that is overlooked by too many young people” Mick Pilling Recruitment Manager Remit

2. Welcome and Introduction • Mick Pilling • University College of Wales, Aberystwyth 1975 -1978 • Trent Polytechnic – Diploma in Careers Guidance 1979 • Career Officer 1980-1989 • Motor Industry Apprenticeship Training 1989-2011

3. Objectives • Underlying trends • Why do young people choose apprenticeships? • Why do young people disregard apprenticeships? • A challenge to Information, Advice and Guidance Practitioners

6. Why do Young People Choose Apprenticeships? • Positive Career Choice and informed and trusted advice and guidance • Peer influence • Parental influence

7. Why do young people disregard apprenticeships? • Their career choice necessitates an academic route • Peer influence • Parental influence • Insufficient knowledge of apprenticeships in school • Perception that apprenticeships are for average to lower ability young people • The more qualified you are the more money you will earn • Apprenticeships are poorly paid • Full time education is familiar and safe • We are in a recession and there aren’t any jobs

8. Employers believe in apprenticeships • 80% of those employers who employ apprentices agree they make their workplace more productive. • Poll of 500 employers reveals many would rather hire an apprentice than take on a graduate • 88% of employers who employ apprentices believe that Apprenticeships lead to a more motivated and satisfied workforce. • 89% of employers believe vocational training programmes are key to business success over the next two years. • One in five employers are hiring more apprentices to help them through the tough economic climate. • More than 30% of Rolls Royce apprentices have progressed to senior management roles within the company

9. The government believes in apprenticeships • 360,000 starts per annum by 2020 • One in five 16-18 year olds to undertake an apprenticeship in the next decade • Increase of £222m in funding for apprenticeships announced last week • Aim that apprentices achieve equivalent esteem and status with university graduates – John Hayes Skills Minister • Universities Minister, David Willetts - more sixth-formers should consider re-sitting their exams or taking an apprenticeship as an alternative to university.

10. How do we ensure apprenticeships are a positive choice for young people? • Ensure all apprenticeship experiences are high quality • Provide IAG practitioners with the tools to better understand apprenticeship options • Apprenticeship role models • Apprenticeship providers active in schools

11. The challenge for those guiding young people • Employers need sufficient quality applicants for available apprenticeships • There are not sufficient ‘graduate level’ jobs • Challenge those embarking on A levels with average GCSE’s • At age 19+ apprenticeships become difficult to access • Best age to start apprenticeship is 16. • Cost of Higher Education

12. Any questions?