Source
http://www.express.co.uk/finance/city/421109/Apprenticeships-in-engineering-proving-popular
ENGINEERING apprenticeships are growing in popularity as the appetite for degree courses in the subject wanes.
Figures from Engineering UK, the industry body, show that over the past nine years, engineering apprenticeships have shot up 86.8 per cent compared with an increase of only 22.4 per cent in those starting engineering degrees.
The latest figures, for 2010 to 2011, show the number starting engineering degrees dipping 0.9 per cent while apprenticeships surged by 29.3 per cent.
A total of 31,070 new apprentices entered the engineering and advanced manufacturing sector in 2011-12, compared with 22,300 in 2010-11 and 16,760 in 2009-10.
Keith Lewis, managing director of engineering recruitment firm Matchtech said: “Apprenticeships are proving attractive for people looking to get into engineering. Additionally, employers are looking for ‘on the job’ experience.
“Topping up the talent pool for the next generation of engineers is vital for the UK economy if it is to meet the Government’s infrastructure plans. It’s a step in the right direction.”
Matchtech last year found that 57.7 per cent of business leaders from all areas believe that there is a significant skills shortage in the technical and engineering fields.
