THERE have never been more opportunities available for young people in Essex, as the number of apprenticeship vacancies has increased by more than a third over the previous year.

However, online applications are also rising, and the Government is urging more employers to create opportunities under the National Apprenticeship Scheme.
The latest Government survey also reveals the proportion of female candidates is rising fast. Almost half of applicants are now women,including those who want to work in traditionally male dominated sectors such as engineering.

Matthew Hancock MP, skills and enterprise minister, said: “These figures show that apprenticeships are growing in appeal to young people, and more young women are seeking out this unique opportunity to earn while they learn and gain a recognised qualification while notching up vital work experience.”

Mr Hancock also stressed apprenticeships could prove a gateway to higher levels of business.

He said: “One in five employers currently have former apprentices working in senior, board level positions. With that in mind, it’s very encouraging to see vacancies increasing and new employers coming on board. But with each online position attracting an average of 12 applications, demand continues to outstrip supply and I would urge more employers to consider how they can take advantage of this available pool of talent and grow their business through apprenticeships.”

The most popular sector in Essex for apprentice applications was education and training.

It was followed by arts, media and publishing, and information and communication technology.

The least popular sectors were retail and commercial enterprise, and science and mathematics.