From today, the start of National Apprenticeship Week, employers have created thousands of apprenticeship opportunities.
Banking giant Santander will create 275 apprentices in its main offices and branch network. The bank's apprenticeships are aimed at people aged 16+ who have at least two GCSE (or equivalent) grades A - C in both English and Maths.
Successful applicants will join as permanent employees and will study for vocational qualifications in either providing financial services or customer service - the equivalent of achieving five GCSEs.
KFC is celebrating the week by rolling out its Intermediate Apprenticeship Scheme to all of its team members.
The roll-out, which follows a well-received trial period, will provide those in an entry-level position at KFC with the opportunity to gain a nationally recognised qualification.
By the end of the year, 3,000 KFC staff will have the chance to study for the City & Guilds-accredited qualification, which is the equivalent of five GCSEs.
Global coffee chain Starbucks has today reaffirmed its commitment to providing opportunities for young people in the UK by increasing the qualifications it will offer.
On top of offering 1,000 apprenticeships by the end of 2014, the company will also be providing 200 of its existing partners (employees) the chance to earn a Level-3 apprenticeship, the equivalent of 2 A-levels.
O2 will be taking on at least 40 apprenticeships this year, across a broad range of positions, including roles on the operations team, the HR team, the business sales team.
Ann Pickering, HR director for Telefónica UK, said, "At Telefónica, young people are an important part of our business and we're privileged to see first-hand the benefits young apprentices bring to our workplace.
"Having grown up in the digital world, they possess valuable digital skills which many other workers simply don't.
"We believe that there is an untapped wealth of skill and knowledge sitting within the youth community but not enough is being done to harness it. As thousands of young people look to start their careers in 2013, all businesses, big and small, can play their part."
Jan Smallbone, director of talent for Starbucks, said: "Starting as an apprentice at Starbucks gives young people a genuine alternative to academic study, and a real path to a retail career."
Smallbone added: "We cannot underestimate the role of parents and teachers in influencing career choices, and so convincing them of the true potential of a great apprenticeship scheme is the key to giving young people the incentive and confidence to pursue a vocational route."
Marcus Lee, head of resourcing at Santander, said: "Our aim is to offer excellent customer service and we're looking for people with real energy and passion to help us deliver a great experience for our customers every day.
"The apprenticeship programme is a fantastic way to get into the banking sector and can be the first step to a long-term career with a successful global company."
