ABSTRACT
Apprenticeships have become an important part of the political agenda across the UK. However, there have been some significant differences in the way that they have developed in England and Scotland. If apprenticeships are to expand in Scotland, it is important that they continue to be targeted at young people with a continued focus on those apprenticeships at level 3 and above. Too many English young apprentices drop out after gaining only a level 2 apprenticeship, which is of limited long-term career value.
With a growth in high quality apprenticeships, there are important lessons to be learned from European countries with a strong apprenticeship tradition, particularly those in the Germanic sphere, though it is also important to recognise the strong college sector in the UK and its role in practical skills development. But there are tensions in targeting, quality, length and content. However, if these issues are addressed, there is evidence that apprenticeship lifetime earnings compare well with equivalent academic qualifications.
While apprenticeships should be work-based, colleges have a big role to play in delivering the crucial educational component, particularly with the new apprenticeship levy, though it is a different relationship for them with learners and employers. And if apprenticeships are to succeed as an alternative to traditional degrees and college courses, it will be important to provide good advice to young people and to reassure teachers and parents that they are a valid option.
