Chris Roberts : No set path to follow when reviewing career choices

9:52am Tuesday 12th February 2008

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ONE size does not fit all in many aspects of life, and this is also the case when it comes to the path people need to take to a fulfilling career.

The academic route, while perfect for some, is not suitable for everyone.

There are those who prefer vocational training, where the emphasis is more practical and hands-on, such as that offered by apprenticeships.

Years ago, apprenticeships were traditionally about jobs in heavy industries, such as the shipyards. While engineering and welding are still choices, today's apprenticeships have a much wider scope.

They now take in hairdressing, catering, and beauty therapy. In fact, there are nearly a quarter of a million apprentices working in more than 130,000 organisations in England, across 80 different sectors.

The Government recently unveiled plans for 500,000 new apprenticeship places by 2020 - great news for employers looking to fill skills gaps and for people keen to meet their full potential.

Apprenticeships have certainly been making their mark in the North-East, with nearly 10,000 people starting an apprenticeship in 2006-7.

The region also achieved notable success in last year's LSC National Apprenticeship Awards.

Abbigail Kewin, 16, from Whitley Bay, North Tyneside, was named young apprentice of the year, while Gareth Moor, 23, from Morpeth, Northumberland, won an advanced apprentice award. Mr Moor works for a Newcastle firm of electrical contractors.

The search is now on for this year's contenders. More information is available by calling 0800 954 8896 or visiting apprenticeships.org.uk/awards. The deadline for entries is February 29.

* Chris Roberts is regional director of the Learning and Skills Council North-East