Farron encourages young people to consider apprenticeships

Following the release of GCSE and A Level results, South Lakes MP Tim Farron is encouraging young people to consider apprenticeships. A recent report shows that apprentices and graduates are likely to earn a similar amount across their lifetimes.

A recent report by Barclays and the Centre for Economics and Business Research looks at the 'lifetime earning premium' - the additional earning potential of graduates and apprentices over their lifetimes. On average, the premium for graduates is £2,200 more over a lifetime. However, the report also shows that for many sectors, apprentices' premiums are actually far higher than for graduates - notably for Arts, Media and Publishing, as well as Agriculture, Horticulture and Animal Care.

Tim has worked hard to promote apprenticeships in South Lakeland. Since 2010, the number of apprenticeships in Tim's constituency has increased drastically and more than 4000 apprenticeships have been started in the area.

Tim said: "Many young people will currently be considering their next steps, and this report confirms what many of us already knew - that apprenticeships can provide a fantastic route into the world of work. Here in South Lakeland, there are a wealth of opportunities for young people to start apprenticeships - earning money whilst receiving top quality training.

"This report shows that apprentices can earn just as much over a lifetime as graduates. I'd urge young people to fully consider all their options as they look at their next steps."