IN the last three years there has been a significant drop in the number of people starting apprenticeships in Swindon, new figures have revealed.

The statistics show that in 2011/12 there were 1,980 new starts but by 2013/14 this had dropped to 1,560, a fall of more than 20 per cent.

In the preceding years there had been a rise in the number but the fall echoes a trend across the country.

The reason being given for the decline is the dropping of the Advanced Learning Loan for those over the age of 24, leading to a decline in the number of people in that age category.

“We believe one of the main reasons was that people over the age of 24 used to be able to get the Advanced Learning Loan for apprenticeships to support themselves but that is now not the case,” said Paddy Bradley, head of skills and economy at Swindon Borough Council.

“In that age range we have seen an overall decrease but I do think that is something which has been echoed across the country.”

The council has accepted the issue needs addressing and is working with businesses, encouraging them to take on more apprentices.

Mr Bradley said: “Starting an apprenticeship is a career choice. It is making a clear decision that you want to start a career in that area rather than just a job.

“More companies are beginning to see the benefits of having people on apprenticeships because they are more likely to stay longer.”

The Swindon Skills and Employment Board has enlisted the help of businesses.

Led by Nationwide, they will be working across the region to reverse the decline in uptake.

Thames Water has recently been running a course aimed at giving people who are unemployed and out of full-time education in Swindon a chance a gaining skills, with some being given the chance of job.

HR director Janet Burr said: “We’re extremely proud to be the first water company to offer traineeships.

“It’s well known there’s a skills gap on the horizon in engineering and a number of our more experienced employees are due to retire in the coming years.’’

She concluded: “It’s important we plan ahead and nurture as many new and enthusiastic young people as we can.”