UK apprenticeship vacancies in engineering and manufacturing technologies increased 15 per cent between August and October 2013, compared with the same period in the previous year, according to figures released today by the National Apprenticeship Service.
The study also boasts a 55 per cent increase in female applicants, as well as, a five per cent rise in online applications over the same period last year.
Matthew Hancock MP, Skills and Enterprise Minister, said:
“These figures show that apprenticeships are growing in appeal to young people, and yet more young women are seeking out this unique opportunity to earn while they learn and gain a recognised qualification while notching up vital work experience.
“With new independent research revealing that one in five employers currently have former apprentices working in senior, board level, positions, it’s also very encouraging to see vacancies increasing and new employers coming on board.
“But with each online position attracting an average of 12 applications, demand continues to outstrip supply and I would urge more employers to consider how they can take advantage of this available pool of talent and grow their business through Apprenticeships.”
The government is urging employers to offer more apprenticeships in order to meet the surge in demand.
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