Apprenticeship Rate

Understanding Apprenticeship Rate

The apprenticeship rate shows the percentage of students who progress to apprenticeships after leaving the school. This is an important destination measure, particularly for schools with strong vocational pathways.

What Apprenticeships Offer

Apprenticeships provide:

• Practical, on-the-job training
• Nationally recognised qualifications
• Paid employment while learning
• A route into careers without university debt

Modern apprenticeships range from intermediate (Level 2) through degree apprenticeships (Level 6/7), covering everything from construction to accounting to software engineering.

Interpreting the Numbers

• Above 10%: Strong apprenticeship pathway
• 5-10%: Good vocational provision
• 2-5%: Moderate, typical for many schools
• Below 2%: Lower focus on apprenticeship routes

Highly academic schools (grammar schools, high-performing comprehensives) often have low apprenticeship rates because most students pursue university. This doesn’t indicate poor provision — it reflects student choices.

Why Apprenticeships Matter

For many students, apprenticeships offer a better path than university:

• No student debt
• Earn while learning
• Guaranteed work experience
• Strong employment outcomes in many sectors

What to Look For

Schools with high apprenticeship rates typically:

• Have good employer links
• Offer strong careers guidance
• Provide relevant vocational qualifications
• Support students into quality placements

Consider apprenticeship rates alongside university progression for a complete picture of a school’s post-16 outcomes.