Rise in number of apprenticeship vacancies

The number of apprenticeship vacancies across the UK has hit a high, according to new data.

Between August and October 2014, the figures show that the number of apprenticeship vacancies posted online rose by 28 per cent, in comparison to the same period in 2013.

Over the three months, 49,920 vacancies were advertised, while just 36,690 positions were posted between August and October last year.

These figures only account for the number of apprenticeship vacancies posted online. In fact, thousands more positions were offered by employers to young people directly.

Apprenticeship vacancies in the science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) sectors saw a noticeable rise.

Skills minister Nick Boles said: "Apprenticeships are at the heart of the government's drive to equip people with the skills employers want and need. We want it to become the new norm for people to choose between an apprenticeship or university as equally prestigious routes to a great career.

"That is why it's so encouraging to see even more excellent apprenticeship opportunities available across the country."

British manufacturing firm and National Apprenticeships Awards winner Griffon Hoverwork is one employer offering apprenticeships within STEM fields.

Mike Chalkley, engineering director at Griffon Hoverwork, said the firm has seen great benefits through apprenticeship delivery and thinks other businesses should follow suit to reap the rewards.

Virtual College provide a range of online tools and resources to further education colleges and training providers to support apprenticeship delivery. To learn more, please visit: http://vceducation.co.uk