Evidence Unwrapped
Feb 2026
Apprenticeships Unwrapped
Bringing evidence to life for employers on how apprenticeships can transform the lives of marginalised young people
Youth Employment Toolkit
Summarising evidence on effective youth employment interventions.
View toolSummary
This resource looks at apprenticeships as a youth employment intervention, collating available evidence, and pairing it with case studies and practical guidance for employers looking to transform lives, and futureproof their workforce.
What is an apprenticeship?
Read more about What is an apprenticeship?Vocational programmes, typically lasting eight months or more, which combine paid employment with on and off-the-job training.
Apprentices can earn while they learn, gaining:
✓ experience in a chosen industry
✓ practical skills
✓ structured learning
✓ a route into long-term employment and
higher earnings
✓ potential to gain recognised qualifications
In England, apprenticeships are offered from Level 2 (equivalent to five GCSE passes) to Level 7 (equivalent to postgraduate study).
Why invest in apprenticeships?
Read more about Why invest in apprenticeships?Apprenticeships pay back – in performance and innovation.They boost productivity and build the diverse
teams that power growth.
Research shows:
- 63% of employers offering Level 2 apprenticeships keep at least one apprentice post-completion
- 77% of apprenticeship employers report productivity gains
- Two-thirds of employers say apprentices bring fresh ideas.
Many of us have had to be independent from a very young age. Apprenticeships allow us to continue doing this, accessing the same qualifications as others whilst getting a wage.
Future Voices Group Ambassador: Apprenticeships after experience of the care system
What can you do?
Apprenticeships work — but only when designed and managed well.
The evidence highlights six key areas to prioritise in order to deliver apprenticeships that are high-quality, inclusive and impactful for marginalised young people:
Reach young people who might not otherwise apply
Get young people ready to succeed
Design for quality, feedback and progression
Create an inclusive environment that sustains engagement
Work in partnership
Prioritise local economic priorities
For full details on how to enhance your offering, download the Apprentice Unwrapped resource.
Download the Apprenticeships Unwrapped resource
More about the programme
Check out more of what we’ve acheived with Make it an Apprenticeship
Make it an Apprenticeship
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