Apprenticeships and on-the-job training are successful non-degree routes to a career

In the wake of rising university fees, school leaver schemes and apprenticeships are becoming increasingly popular with both students and recruiters. Universities have seen a downturn in applications and it seems that students are starting to look at options outside of the university route.

Richard Garner hears about plans for a ground-breaking new college.

Joanne Haynes trained as a florist at Plumpton College in East Sussex. Only a few years after qualifying, she bought the floristry business where she had done her apprenticeship.

Craig Peacey, 18, is studying a level three NVQ in wood machining at Webs Training College in Nottingham. He is one of four apprentices in a firm of door manufacturers.

Dean Stocking is 19. When he left school, he trained in light vehicle mechanics, but he is now studying for a three-year NVQ in HGV engineering as an apprentice with Essex County Fire Service. The service is one of five in the country to have signed up to a “blue-light scheme” to address skills shortages.

Janieann Wightwick, 17, is studying for an NVQ level two in hairdressing at Mid-Kent College. Before she left school she worked in a local hair salon for some extra cash, and is now training full-time at the same salon.

Having drifted for a few years after leaving school, Kris Spearing, 21, is studying for an NVQ level two in sea fishing at Whitby & District Fishing Industry Training School

An apprenticeship in the motor industry can put you on the road to a huge range of exciting careers.

Samantha Godsalve, 20, a former music student is now in her second year of an apprenticeship with an aerospace company, and she is loving it.

If we look around us everything we see is all about engineering. Engineering is about working in the real world, making things that make a difference.