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Yorkshire?s Higher Apprentices outpace their peers

Former apprentices in Yorkshire and The Humber are outpacing their peers when it comes to being fit for the workplace, according to new figures released today (Monday 8 April).

The study by ICM Research reveals that employers in the region rate qualified apprentices as 16 per cent more employable than those with other qualifications. Those who complete Higher Apprenticeships are the most desirable employees, with businesses rating this group as 25 per cent more employable than those who took an alternative route into work.

Higher Apprenticeships were introduced in 2009 to provide high level qualifications for apprentices and enable employers, colleges and universities to deliver the advanced skills most critical for growth.

The figures come as the National Apprenticeship Service releases a new film and guide to the Higher Apprenticeships expected to be available to A-Level school leavers and existing apprentices and employees in 2013.

Higher Apprenticeships are already a popular choice for both young people and current employees looking to progress in their careers, with 410 learners starting Higher Apprenticeships in Yorkshire and The Humber during the 2011/2012 academic year – representing growth of 21 per cent on the previous year.

This bodes well for young people’s future prospects, with recent reports estimating that completing a Level 4 Higher Apprenticeship could result in increased lifetime earnings of more than £150,000.

David Way, executive director, National Apprenticeship Service said: “Higher Apprenticeships are a great example of how apprenticeships are changing to reflect the world of work and the even higher level skills needed by employers.”

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Mark Lane .