EngineeringUK responds to DfE apprenticeships data

In response to the Department for Education (DfE) releasing new apprenticeships data today, EngineeringUK has run an analysis on the data related to the engineering and technology sector.  

Engineering-related apprenticeship starts have increased at a greater rate than all sector subject areas, increasing by 25.8% on 2020/21, compared to an 8.6% increase across all sector subject areas. However, engineering-related apprenticeship starts are still down by 5.5% since 2018/19, and down by 12.3% since 2016/17. 

Beatrice Barleon, Head of Policy & Public Affairs at EngineeringUK, comments:  

“Today’s apprenticeship data show a step in the right direction – with a positive uptick in apprenticeships starts as we emerge from the pandemic. Given the acute skills shortage and the pressing need for more engineers to support the UK’s net zero ambitions, it’s particularly encouraging to see the engineering and technology sector is ahead of others in attracting people into its fold.  

“However, to meet future skills needs projections, we need to see exponential growth of apprenticeships starts (and finishes!) in the engineering sector, particularly in areas such as construction. Technicians will be particularly vital in making the UK a leading economic power in low carbon technology and we must ensure that we have enough people skilled to fulfil these roles.  

“Importantly, the data also suggests that more needs to be done to enable younger people to enter the engineering sector via the apprenticeship route, with Level 2 and 3 apprenticeships still in decline compared to higher level apprenticeships. Improving the system must focus on growth across all levels of apprenticeships if we are to successfully address current and future skills shortages.”  

The full analysis from EngineeringUK can be found on the EngineeringUK website.