12 March 2014

Positive feedback for print apprenticeships but their visibility in schools must be improved

90% of BPIF 16-18 year old apprentices surveyed would recommend an apprenticeship to a friend

 It is clear apprenticeship programmes work and provide a viable route to a successful career. They also benefit businesses; 96% of employers that take on an apprentice report benefits to their business. Offering apprenticeships can provide a business with a pipeline of fresh recruits and can ensure that skills and experiences are passed on through your workforce, from experienced employees to the younger generation.

This week is National Apprenticeship Week. Now in its seventh year National Apprenticeship Week is the time when all eyes are on apprenticeships and our collective aim is to raise the profile amongst employers, individuals, teachers, parents and the media. In support the BPIF have surveyed their 16-18 year old apprentices to discover how BPIF apprentices found the process of applying for an apprenticeship.

Results indicated that, although BPIF apprentices found great benefits from their programmes, print apprenticeships are not widely promoted in schools and colleges. 78% of apprentices said that apprenticeships were discussed at school however only 6% said that printing was encouraged as a career. However it was also found that 83% of the surveyed apprentices knew someone who had done or was completing one. 79% of respondents stated that the process of applying was easy and 46% had accessed the National Apprenticeship website. However 74% said support was given by their family and only 21% cited their school or college as giving support. 

BPIF apprentices stated that they 'learnt additional skills' and that 'working as well as earning a qualification was the best thing to do in the economic climate'. They felt they achieved 'valuable work experience' by 'being paid to learn' and that an apprenticeship was the 'best way to get a career' as they could gain 'experience and education at once which is what employers look for'.

Highlights for BPIF apprentices included 'being more independent', 'taking responsibility and being treated like an adult', 'the pay rises' and 'learning new skills'.

For more information please contact BPIF Training on 01676 526 046.