The majority of young people polled in a survey say they would prefer pursuing an apprenticeship rather than going to university.

The findings come from Rochester-based BAE Systems which quizzed those aged between 16 and 24 as to their attitudes for career paths.

It has released the results to coincide with National Apprenticeship Week which runs this week.

Its findings form part of the newly launched Apprenticeship Barometer which surveyed 2,000 young people across the county.

It revealed six out of 10 would prefer an apprenticeship to university, while more than 70% were willing to relocate to other parts of the UK to secure an apprenticeship.

Some 86% said apprenticeships enhanced social mobility and provided an alternative to traditional higher education routes.

Richard Hamer, HR director of education and skills at BAE Systems - which specialises in defence, aeronautics and IT security, said: “The Apprenticeship Barometer gives a real insight into the aspirations and values of the next generation of the UK workforce.

“It’s clear there’s a huge appetite for high quality vocational training that provides a clear career pathway, whilst offering financial security.

“I’d encourage anyone interested in apprenticeships to have a look at the thousands of highly valuable opportunities available across the country.”

BAE Systems is recruiting for more than 2,400 new apprentice, undergraduate and graduate roles in 2025, which will result in around 6,500 in training, making up approximately 15% of its UK workforce.

Industries linked to careers in science, technology engineering and mathematics (STEM) led the way in apprenticeship preferences, with one in four (26%) of the young people surveyed expressing interest.

More than half (54%) of respondents identified earning while learning as the main reason for choosing an apprenticeship over university, while 36% cited avoiding student debt as a key motivator.

Baroness Jacqui Smith, Minister for Skills at the Department for Education, added: “Apprenticeships are central to this government’s Plan for Change — they break down barriers to opportunity and equip people of all ages and backgrounds with the skills they need to go on to rewarding careers. They also drive growth by giving businesses the workforce they need in key sectors of the economy.”