The Young Apprenticeship programme was launched in September 2004, with 1000 pupils embarking on Young Apprenticeships. The programme has continued to expand over the last few years and from September 2009, there will be more than 10,000 young people embarking on a Young Apprenticeship across 14 sectors.

A taste of 'real work' for young people

Young Apprenticeships are one element of a wider strategy to bring vocational learning into mainstream of secondary education and meet diverse needs through additional choice. Aimed at 14-16 year olds of good ability, the programme is for pupils who are attracted to a more practical style of learning and who are keen to gain a taste of 'real work' in a supported way. The pupils are based in school and follow core National Curriculum subjects, but for two days a week (or equivalent), over a two year period, they also work towards nationally recognised qualifications in the workplace and spend 50 days in a fully supported work placement.

The Young Apprenticeship programme in Business & Administration is one of the most popular amongst Young Apprentices with a good proportion of young people opting for apprenticeship in this sector. The programme provides pupils with a realistic insight into today's business environment. By carrying out administrative tasks and understanding the workings of an office the pupil will understand the nature and demands of full-time work, which will help them to make better informed decisions upon completion of GCSEs. The pupil will also develop essential business and administration skills and knowledge, a work-related and/or a work-based qualification at Level 2.