Survey on the value of apprenticeships in construction

A survey has revealed the value of apprenticeships in the construction sector following NAW2016.

To coincide with National Apprenticeship Week 2016, a survey of over 1000 employers in the construction sector was carried out, which show both the value of apprentices to employers and a lack of knowledge about the scheme across a large section of employers.

The survey was carried out by Power Tool World to promote the value of apprenticeships across the sector. An expected 230,000 jobs are to be created in construction over the next four years, with the campaign aiming to create guides for both apprentices (Kick-starting your Career in Construction) and a guide for those thinking of hiring an apprentice (Why should you hire an apprentice?) Both of the guides were created with the help of the National Careers Service, who provided important tips for both employers and those thinking of becoming an apprentice.

The responses in the survey reveal that apprenticeships are vital to the sector as a whole, providing real benefits to the companies that employ them. Out of all of the employers interviewed, 75% said that apprentices provided skilled workers for the company going forward, 35% reported that apprentices had already made their businesses more productive and 14% said that hiring an apprentice had directly and positively impacted upon their profits.

It was also reported that one quarter of respondents feel that having an apprentice on their staff looks good to clients.

On the other hand, the survey revealed a lack of knowledge about apprenticeships by those who haven’t hired one yet, with half of those who were interested in hiring an apprentic, admitting that they did not know where to start. Additionally, over one third of employers who have not yet hired an apprentice are unaware of the grants available.

Chris Guy, Managing Director of Power Tool World, said: “You can see from the results of this survey how important apprenticeships are to the construction industry and that there is still work needed to raise awareness and educate the industry. We’re taking any opportunity to do our bit to promote the scheme to young people and employers on the many benefits of apprenticeships.”

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