EAL: Soaring apprentice morale vindicates vocational route

The government's Apprentice Learner Survey vindicated vocational schemes as a "gold standard" alternative to university learning, said Ann Watson, EAL md. Watson said: "It is very encouraging to see proof that Apprenticeships are helping workers get promotions, take on more responsibility and improve their career prospects – not to mention the majority who said it had improved their overall quality of life. This leaves no doubt as to the huge benefits on offer by following the vocational route." The comments came after the government's Apprentice Learner Survey found highest morale amoung construction, engineering and manufacturing based trainees. Ninety one per cent of manufacturing apprentices voiced satisfaction with their apprenticeships with 85% believing the course had boosted career prospects. This compared with an average of 81 per cent across all sectors. The sector also topped the charts in terms of pay rises on completion of apprenticeships, the survey found. Over 70% in engineering and manufacturing technologies enjoyed an increase. Watson added: "We are delighted to see that such a high proportion of apprentices in our key sectors are satisfied with their Apprenticeships and that the time spent training is paying dividends for both the employee and employer.