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The systems challenge

Existing evidence indicates apprenticeships have a high impact on youth employment outcomes, particularly for those facing additional barriers. Yet access to and progress within apprenticeships is not equal for all young people.

Our aim

To explore how young people from minoritised ethnic backgrounds access and experience apprenticeships, so that we can better understand the extent of disparities and what drives them.

What are we doing?

We have used a combined approach: commissioning qualitative research and conducting quantitative analysis.

What did the qualititative analysis look at?

The National Centre for Social Research explored what factors may contribute to ethnic disparities in apprenticeship starts, completions and achievements among young people in England.

The research considered demographic factors, sectors and geography, and focused on Level 2 (Intermediate) and 3 (Advanced) apprenticeships.

It captured insights through:

  1. interviews with employers, training providers and expert stakeholders
  2. interviews and focus groups with Black, Pakistani and Bangladeshi young people

It was supported by an expert advisory group, including representatives from the Runnymede Trust and Action for Race Equality.

What will the quantitative analysis look at?

Our economists will analyse existing data to:

  • draw out potential insights on the experiences of minority ethnic young people in apprenticeships
  • map data gaps

Background

Over the past decade, significant reforms have been introduced to the apprenticeship system in England, including the Apprenticeship Levy and changes to qualification standards and training requirements.

Existing research has identified several barriers faced by all young people in accessing apprenticeships, including low awareness, low wages, and entry-level requirements that hinder access for disadvantaged groups.

Key findings

The qualitative research revealed insights about:

  • Awareness and perceptions

    There is low understanding of apprenticeships as a viable pathway in family networks and communities.

  • Financial barriers

    While the lack of student debt is appealing, low wages for apprentices impacts interest in and ability to complete programmes.

  • Inclusion

    A lack of cultural awareness amongst some employers was reported, and instances of overt and systemic racism highlighted by employers, training providers and young people.

  • Regional and sectoral variations

    Availability and accessibility of apprenticeships varies, with different barriers emerging in different regions and sectors.

The new research echoes insights from our 2024 survey, which revealed over half of young people from minoritised ethnic backgrounds experience discrimination at work.

Read the 2024 report

Project outputs

Read the qualitative report for further details, and explore our recommendations for employers

Discover all
Research report Apr 2025
Ethnic disparities and apprenticeship participation - qualitative research findings

Qualitative research into the participation of young people from minority ethnic backgrounds in apprenticeships.
Overview Download
Research Unwrapped Apr 2025
Research Unwrapped: Ethnic disparities and apprenticeship participation

A summary of recent research with recommendations for employers
Overview Download

Response from the sector

Race disparities in apprenticeships have persisted for a long time and show now sign of being closed. The exceptionally low start rates for Black young people are especially disturbing.

There is more work to do with employers, schools, careers services and ethnic minority communities. It is time for the government to galvanise and connect these stakeholders through national and regional race equity actions plans.

Jeremy Crook OBE - Chief Executive, Action for Race Equality

At Business in the Community, we believe that all young people deserve a clear pathway into work, and through our Talent Unlocked partnership with Youth Futures Foundation, we work to ensure that ethnically diverse young people have access to good employment.

Apprenticeships are a hugely impactful means through which young people can gain invaluable experience and essential skills. However, it's concerning to see that there's an underrepresentation of ethnically diverse young people undertaking apprenticeships.

To ensure that more ethnically diverse young people participate in apprenticeships, it's essential that businesses reach out to diverse groups when advertising opportunities so that no one is left behind.

Sandra Kerr CBE - Race Equality Director at Business in the Community

In the West Midlands, the unemployment rate for people from minoritised ethnic backgrounds is two times higher than for White British people. This research helps build vital understanding of specific barriers that prevent Black, Pakistani and Bangladeshi young people from pursuing or completing apprenticeships, which could otherwise be the key to their success, and to a fairer future. It also offers essential direction on the action needed from employers in the region to improve equality of opportunity.

Sharonjit Clare - Independent Chair of the West Midlands Race Equalities Taskforce

The findings from Youth Futures’ research provide a vital snapshot of the ongoing barriers faced by young people from ethnic minority backgrounds in accessing and succeeding in apprenticeships. From the lack of awareness and financial obstacles to experiences of racism and the absence of role models, it’s clear that significant disparities persist. The research underscores the importance of improving access to apprenticeship information, fostering inclusive environments, and supporting diversity at all levels. To move the conversation forward, employers, policymakers, and educators must collaborate to implement targeted initiatives that promote equality in apprenticeship participation and progression.

Raheem Mohammad - Director, Hamara

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