Apprenticeships in England are going through a quiet revolution. For years, they were seen as a good alternative to university, but not quite equal. That view is changing fast.
How are Apprenticeships Changing?
Apprenticeships are no longer just for trades. Today, they cover almost every field, from business to digital tech. They also span every level: from entry-level to degree-level qualifications. Learn more about the different apprenticeship levels here.
The numbers show this evolution clearly. In 2023/24 there were 202,520 apprenticeship starts, slightly up from 200,550 last year. Participation rose to 633,600, and achievements jumped to 78,970. Together, these figures show a strong pipeline of learners starting, staying, and finishing their programmes.
Who is taking part in apprenticeships?
Apprenticeships are open to all ages, but the majority are over 25:
- Under-19s: 27.9% of starts
- Ages 19–24: 28.3%
- Ages 25+: 43.9%
Diversity is also improving:
- Learners with learning difficulties or disabilities made up 16.5% of starts
- Ethnic-minority participation grew to 16.8%.
At a time when universities still face challenges with access, apprenticeships are showing they can be a more open and flexible route.
How are degree apprenticeships growing?
This year, higher apprenticeships (equivalent to A-levels) increased by 8.7%, while degree-level apprenticeship starts rose by 12.5%. Nearly one in five apprenticeships is now at degree level.
That shift is dramatic. Around 50,000 people are now on degree apprenticeships – more than four times the number in 2017/18. Meanwhile, entry-level programmes are in decline, dropping 7.1%.
This is more than a statistical quirk. It is a signal of cultural change. Learners and employers alike are looking upward, chasing advanced skills and professional-level training.
Why are degree apprenticeships increasing?
The appeal is clear:
- University is expensive, and apprenticeships are not
- Learners gain a degree and work experience at the same time
- Employers shape their own talent pipelines
- The pathway is more open and inclusive
For many, this option makes more sense than traditional higher university.
Learn more about degree apprenticeships vs university here
What subjects are driving growth?
Some subjects stand out:
- Business, Administration and Law is still the largest, with 27.9% of starts
- Health, Public Services and Care saw a small decline
- Digital Technology is growing quickly, now at 8% of starts
- STEM subjects as a whole make up 28.7% and are still rising
This shows apprenticeships are lining up with the skills the economy needs most.
Why Should We Care?
Apprenticeships are no longer second-best. They are now competing directly with university.
The benefits are clear:
- Employers get staff ready to work
- Learners gain a degree and job experience
- No student debt to worry about
With two-thirds of apprenticeships funded by the levy, demand looks stable. Digital growth, STEM expansion, and wider diversity all point to apprenticeships staying at the centre of the UK’s skills strategy.
What’s Next for Apprenticeships?
The future looks bright. More employers are using apprenticeships to fill skills gaps, while learners see them as a clear path to a career.
The challenge is balance. The sector must keep doors open for younger learners and spread opportunities across all levels. If it succeeds, apprenticeships will remain one of the UK’s most powerful tools for building a skilled and inclusive workforce.
