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Apprenticeships Soar in South West
15 Feb
Summary
- Young people choosing apprenticeships in South West are increasing.
- Apprentices at Airbus gain hands-on experience in aerospace.
- National apprenticeship starts saw a 4% rise last year.
In the South West of England, there is a notable increase in young individuals selecting apprenticeships. This trend is particularly evident in sectors such as agriculture and engineering.
At Airbus's Filton facility near Bristol, a new cohort of engineers is actively involved in advanced aerospace projects. The company highlights that a substantial portion of its UK senior management began their careers as apprentices, underscoring the value of this pathway.
Nationally, apprenticeship starts have seen a 4% increase, reaching 353,500 in the last academic year. Figures indicate 40,000 young people in the South West were engaged in apprenticeships, with popular fields including animal care and horticulture.
Apprentices like Jacob Pagett and Emily McCaffrey at Airbus emphasize the practical learning and responsibility afforded to them. Josh Reynolds-Hailing, completing a marketing apprenticeship, also praised the supportive environment and the acquisition of valuable workplace skills.
Companies like Babcock are also contributing, creating 1,600 apprentice and graduate roles. This focus on apprenticeships is seen as crucial for maintaining competitiveness in key industries like aerospace, ensuring a pipeline of skilled talent for the future.
