A new paper from EngineeringUK reveals that there has been an 88 per cent increase in the number of adult engineering apprentices between 2009 and 2010, compared to an 8 per cent decrease in young engineering apprentices (16-18) and a 9 per cent decrease

A new paper from EngineeringUK reveals that there has been an 88 per cent increase in the number of adult engineering apprentices between 2009 and 2010, compared to an 8 per cent decrease in young engineering apprentices (16-18) and a 9 per cent decrease in engineering apprentices overall (16-25).

This unprecedented rise in apprentices over 25 is thought to be linked to a new funding stream introduced in 2007 for adult apprenticeships, as well increased demand for retraining opportunities following the economic downturn.

The 9 % fall in engineering Apprenticeships overall also comes against a 7 per cent rise in apprenticeships across all subjects. According to the National Apprenticeship Service, the overall increase in apprenticeships is also evidence that employers are recognising the need to up-skill existing staff in preparation for the upturn.

Paul Jackson, Chief Executive of EngineeringUK, said:

"This nine per cent decrease in engineering, manufacturing and technology apprentices is concerning, particularly when viewed against the 7 % rise overall. It is not enough to create new apprenticeships alone. If the UK is to live up to the recent skills white paper and succeed in forging a new class of highly skilled technicians, we must create apprenticeships in strategically important subjects such as engineering and manufacturing. We hope to see all political parties address this issue in the forthcoming election campaign.