UK YOUNGSTERS BACK APPRENTICESHIPS OVER UNIVERSITY DEGREES

UK youngsters think that degree-level apprenticeships are better for future careers prospects than a traditional university diploma, according to pollster Ipsos MORI.

The study, which was conducted to coincide with the Sutton Trust/Pearson summit on apprenticeships and vocational education, found that only two in ten (21%) of respondents said that a traditional degree would be better than a degree-level apprenticeship – opposed to 34% who supported the latter option.

The survey, which polled more than 1,700 people aged between 16 and 25, also revealed that a further third of people (33%) feel both are equally valuable.

“There is a growing appetite for real apprenticeships among young people and the wider public,” said Conor Ryan, director of research at the Sutton Trust.

“But there are still not nearly enough apprenticeships at A-level or degree standard available. It is vital that this gap is addressed.”

Read the full story by Ian Silvera here