Research has shown 72% of the general public would prefer their children go to university rather than enrolling in an apprenticeship.

The study, conducted on behalf of the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB), also revealed that 80% of MP's agreed that 'full employment' could not be achieved without apprenticeships.

The survey asked 152 MP's their views on apprenticeships, with 93% agreeing a greater availability of apprenticeships will benefit the British economy.


However, it also revealed 77% agreed that careers advice tends to promote academic qualifications over vocational education.

Additional research highlighted that while 92% of parents think that apprenticeships are a good option for young people, only a 32% think that it is the best option for their own child.

In response, the CITB has launched a new campaign 'I'm Backing Apprenticeships', calling on MPs and employers to change the perception of apprenticeships and boost numbers in construction.

James Wates, Chairman of the CITB says: "There are tremendous careers in construction, and we want to encourage the best and brightest into our industry.

"To achieve this, we need schools, government and employers working together to boost the status of vocational learning so that careers advisors, young people and parents see apprenticeships for what they really are: the pathway to a successful future."

(LM/CD)