Lack of understanding of apprenticeships revealed

The report, Progression through Apprenticeships, is the result of a six-month enquiry by the Skills Commission, gathering evidence from leading educationalists, employers and apprentices.

The report highlights careers guidance professionals' lack of understanding of local skills shortages and employer demand. In response, the commission has recommended that these professionals make regular annual visits to employers to improve their guidance.

A lack of knowledge of apprenticeships among teachers was also exposed through research by independent education foundation Edge, conducted as part of the inquiry. As a result, the commission is calling for the National Apprenticeship Service to partner with the Training and Development Agency for Schools to improve teacher understanding of the opportunities apprenticeships offer.

Andy Powell, chief executive of Edge, said: "Naturally we are absolutely delighted the report has had the desired effect and made the government take into account more fully the needs of those who wish to take the vocational route to higher levels of learning and skills. Progression routes for apprentices must be clearer and free of barriers to help young people follow one of the many paths to success."