More than eight in 10 (84%) IT professionals believe that apprenticeships are a valuable alternative to further education, according to research from IT recruitment website CWJobs.co.uk

The research also shows 89% recognise that they also benefit businesses, but just 47% of IT professionals believe that their company currently offers apprenticeships and 83% think not enough businesses offer them.

Richard Nott, website director, CWJobs.co.uk, says: “Further education isn’t for everyone. Rising tuition fees and challenging graduate employment conditions have paved the way for alternative routes.

“IT professionals evidently recognise the importance of apprenticeship schemes. For young jobseekers they’re an excellent way of gaining qualifications and valuable workplace experience while still earning.”