As it's National Apprenticeship Week, now is the perfect time to shine a spotlight on one of the UK’s most powerful pathways into education, employment, and long-term career success.

Apprenticeships are no longer a ‘plan B’. They are a first-choice route for thousands of people every year – from school leavers aged 16+, to career changers and those looking to upskill or progress in their current role. And the latest national figures for the 2024/25 academic year prove just how strong, diverse and successful apprenticeships have become.

Apprenticeships Are on the Rise

Across England, apprenticeship uptake and success continue to grow:

• 353,500 apprenticeship starts were recorded in 2024/25 - a 4.1% increase on the previous year
• 761,480 learners participated in apprenticeships, up 3.4% year-on-year
• 198,330 apprenticeship achievements were recorded – an impressive 11.3% increase compared to 2023/24

These figures highlight a clear message: more people are choosing apprenticeships, staying the course, and successfully completing their programmes.

From First Step to Degree-Level Success

One of the biggest changes in recent years has been the growth of higher and degree-level apprenticeships, offering learners the chance to gain advanced qualifications while earning a salary.

In 2024/25:

• Higher apprenticeship starts increased by 15.1%, reaching 140,730
• Level 6 and 7 apprenticeships (equivalent to degree and postgraduate level) rose by 20.4% to 60,350 starts
• These higher-level programmes now account for 17.1% of all apprenticeship starts, up from 14.8% the year before

This growth shows that apprenticeships are supporting learners right through to senior, specialist and leadership roles - without the traditional student debt.

Opportunities Across Key Industries

Apprenticeships are available across a huge range of sectors, reflecting the real needs of employers and the economy.

The most popular subject areas in 2024/25 include:

• Business, Administration and Law - 103,890 starts
• Engineering and Manufacturing Technologies - 46,070 starts
• Construction, Planning and the Built Environment - 24,590 starts, with continued growth year-on-year

From professional services and digital roles to hands-on technical and trade careers, apprenticeships offer clear routes into skilled, in-demand jobs.

Apprenticeships for Everyone

Today’s apprenticeship landscape is more inclusive and representative than ever before.

• Under 19s made up 21.2% of all starts, showing apprenticeships are a strong option straight from school
• Learners with a learning difficulty or disability (LLDD) increased by 6.9% to 56,810, now representing 16.7% of all learners
• Apprentices from ethnic minority backgrounds increased by 13.7% to 62,880, accounting for 18% of all starts

These figures reinforce that apprenticeships are designed to support people from all backgrounds - helping remove barriers and widen access to high-quality education and employment.

Why Choose an Apprenticeship?

An apprenticeship allows you to:

• Earn while you learn with a real salary from day one
• Gain nationally recognised qualifications up to degree level
• Build real workplace experience alongside your studies
• Develop skills employers value, boosting long-term career prospects
• Avoid student debt while progressing academically and professionally

It’s a practical, proven route that combines learning with real-world impact.

Apprenticeships at Hull College

At Hull College, we work closely with employers across the region to deliver high-quality apprenticeships that meet industry needs and support learners at every stage of their journey.

Whether you’re leaving school, looking to progress in your current role, or considering a career change, our apprenticeships offer a supportive, flexible and rewarding pathway to success.

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