New figures show that apprenticeships are more popular than ever, with almost three million created since May 2010 as part of a government drive to create opportunities for all.

The latest official stats show a rise in the number of people reaping the benefits of apprenticeships with around 905,000 people in an apprenticeship in the last year alone.

The figures also show that there are more young people starting apprenticeships, with more than 130,000 starts by under 19-year-olds during the 2015 to 2016 academic year.

John Henry, who runs the Apprenticeship Management Group, said: “Traditionally, apprenticeships have been for those going into a traditional trade with university the option chosen by students following professional or academic routes.

“Universities are opening their doors to less academic, more vocational courses. Apprenticeships are not just the route into work for tradespeople, you can now do marketing apprenticeships, get into software and computer companies as well as law firms.

“As higher education tuition fees rise, the option of a training route where you actually get paid to learn becomes a real option.”

The Apprenticeship Management Group brings together over a decade of experience in apprenticeships, including industry experts, training managers, recruitment, IT, HR, law and accounting professionals, all managing the relationships and financial logistics with colleges and independent training providers under one umbrella to provide a simple, cost effective solution. Since inception, the group has recruited over 1,500 apprentices into a wide range of positions.

Traineeships play a significant part in the government’s commitment to creating the highly skilled workforce our employers need. The latest figures show that there were 23,900 traineeship starts in 2015 to 2016, a substantial increase from 19,400 in 2014 to 2015.

Traineeships equip young people who are looking for work with the skills, confidence and vital work experience they need to gain an apprenticeship or other job.

But at the other end of the apprenticeship spectrum, some apprentices can go on to achieve degree-level qualifications.