Survey reveals parent power can unlock the potential of apprenticeships for young people in Derbyshire

Learning Unlimited say parents could hold the power to help their children make the right career and study choices. They have pledged to help them get the right information after the findings of their survey highlighted that misconceptions about modern apprenticeships could mean young people aren’t getting the right advice.

A recent survey commissioned by the apprenticeship provider indicates that almost a third of parents of secondary school age children surveyed in Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire aren’t aware that apprenticeships are available in their area and almost two-thirds don’t know what industries apprenticeships are available in.

The survey highlighted that although parents are broadly supportive of apprenticeships, they might not know how far earning and learning in this way can take their child or what apprenticeship roles are available.

Learning Unlimited say it is time for apprenticeship providers and employers to work much closer with parents to help them understand the opportunities that modern apprenticeships can offer their children. They are launching initiatives during National Apprenticeship Week (6 -10 March) to help parents get the information they need.

Julie Richards, Principal and Chief Executive of Learning Unlimited, part of the Chesterfield College Group said:

“We believe that by working more closely with parents we can help young people find out if an apprenticeship is the best way to get the experience and qualifications they need for a successful career.”

“Apprenticeships have changed so much in the last few years and keeping up with the changes can be a challenge. We want to work closer with parents to help them understand the changes so they are better equipped to consider apprenticeships as an option. We are providing a range of ways for parents to get the latest facts and information to assist them when it comes to helping their children make the right choice for the future.”

The survey also revealed that there is still some way to go to convince parents that apprenticeships can offer a good way for their children to gain qualifications. Only just over half of parents of secondary school children across the country and 64% in Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire agree that apprenticeships offer the same opportunities as full time study. Similarly, almost half of the parents surveyed either didn’t know or believed that apprenticeships were for ‘non-academic’ learners.

Claire Wood, Co-owner of Stephensons coffee shop in Chesterfield, an ex-teacher who now employs apprentices and is a parent of an apprentice has a unique insight into how valuable apprenticeships are and where they can lead. She told us:

“As a business owner, I believe apprentices are vital to give the organisation the skills it needs. Apprenticeships are also good for the local economy and help me to employ local people. As a parent, I have seen how apprenticeships have enabled my son to develop a passion for something he loves at the same time as getting the qualifications that will help his career to develop in the future. He is now a co-owner of the business, managing a team of staff including other apprentices and is ahead of peers who chose the university route.”

A helpful parent’s guide to apprenticeships is available at  www.learningunlimiteduk.com/parents-guide