A growing number of young workers are turning to apprenticeships as a viable route to secure, financially stable careers, new research suggests. The findings indicate that apprenticeships are increasingly seen as a way to enhance workplace wellbeing, offering a structured path into employment while avoiding the financial burdens associated with university.
The research, by British aerospace firm BAE Systems and carried out to mark National Apprenticeship Week this week, found that six in ten young people now view apprenticeships as a preferable alternative to higher education. More than 70% said they would relocate within the UK to pursue an apprenticeship, reflecting a shift towards flexibility and long-term career planning.
Financial security and hands-on training appeal
Concerns over financial stability appear to be a key driver behind the trend, according to the survey, based on a survey of 2,000 people aged 16 to 24. More than half (54%) of respondents cited the ability to “earn while learning” as the primary reason for choosing an apprenticeship over university, while 36% said avoiding student debt was a significant factor. Job security (28%), high starting salaries (28%) and hands-on training (23%) were also listed among the most attractive aspects of apprenticeships.
With financial stress and job uncertainty contributing to workplace anxiety, the structured nature of apprenticeships may provide young workers with greater peace of mind as they enter the workforce, say experts.
Awareness gaps create barriers
Despite their growing appeal, many young people feel underinformed about apprenticeship opportunities, the survey suggests. Nearly half (44%) of those surveyed said they did not know enough about apprenticeships in their preferred field, while 35% identified limited availability as a key obstacle.
The findings indicate that more needs to be done to improve awareness and accessibility, particularly as demand rises. Nearly nine in ten (89%) respondents said employers should expand apprenticeship programmes alongside graduate schemes to offer more inclusive career routes.
STEM careers lead demand
Careers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) continue to be a top choice among apprenticeship seekers, with 26% of respondents expressing interest in these fields. STEM apprenticeships were also among the top three career paths associated with job security, reinforcing their role in future workforce development.
Richard Hamer, HR director of education and skills at BAE Systems, said the findings show a strong appetite for high-quality vocational training. He said the survey “gives a real insight into the aspirations and values of the next generation of the UK workforce. It’s clear there’s a huge appetite for high quality vocational training that provides a clear career pathway, whilst offering financial security.”
Meanwhile, the minister for skills at the Department for Education, Baroness Jacqui Smith, said apprenticeships were vital to the health of the UK economy.
“Apprenticeships are central to this government’s Plan for Change,” she said. “They break down barriers to opportunity and equip people of all ages and backgrounds with the skills they need to go on to rewarding careers. They also drive growth by giving businesses the workforce they need in key sectors of the economy.”
She added that it was “great to see BAE Systems, one of our Top 100 apprentice employers, backing this mission by recruiting more than 2,400 new apprentices, undergraduates and graduates in 2025. Their commitment demonstrates the real impact apprenticeships can have — helping young people gain hands-on training, access secure and well-paid careers, and power key industries like STEM.”
Wellbeing benefits of early career stability
The survey findings align with broader trends in workplace wellbeing, where financial security, structured career progression and hands-on experience contribute to a more resilient workforce. As apprenticeships continue to gain traction, they offer a way for employers to support young workers in achieving both professional success and long-term wellbeing.