It is estimated that, on average, graduates leave university with debts exceeding £44,000*. This staggering figure highlights the significant costs young people face when looking to get themselves on their chosen career path. However, there is an alternative, an option that sees young people get on the job training, gain essential workplace skills, earn a recognised qualification and get paid while they are doing it!

Across a wide range of careers, apprenticeships provide 16 to 24 year olds with the perfect stepping stone to their chosen career. This is especially so when it comes to trades such as plumbing, construction and painting & decorating, where practical, on the job experience is vital.
Encouraging young people to think seriously about their apprenticeship options is the nation’s consumer champion – Checkatrade. Trusted by thousands of homeowners every month, Checkatrade help homeowners find reliable, vetted tradespeople in their area.

Recommending expert tradespeople to their users, Checkatrade are proud to support National Apprenticeship Week, running from 6to 10th March.

Now in its 10^th year, National Apprenticeship Week aims to celebrate apprenticeships and raise their profile as a viable option to other training routes. Bringing together employers and apprentices, during the week potential apprentices will be able to network at a range of events including job fairs and information sessions.

As well as helping young people get the start they need, apprentices can also benefit small businesses, such as local plumbing firms or landscape gardeners, helping them to fill skills gaps, boost productivity and bring new ideas into the business.

Checkatrade ambassador, TV personality and DIY & construction expert, Craig Phillips encourages young people looking for a trade apprenticeship to opt for a Checkatrade vetted firm, “With every Checkatrade member fully vetted and committed to the Checkatrade standards, in choosing a Checkatrade approved member, young apprentices can be sure that the work they will be involved in will be carried out to the highest standards – giving them the very best start.”

Free to use, Checkatrade is an invaluable resource for homeowners looking to find a reputable and skilled trades person in their area. Fully vetted before they can become a member, once they join, members agree to real-time customer feedback online; giving potential customers further insight into their working practices.

Find out more at www.checkatrade.com