In the middle of National Apprenticeship Week, a time to look at the opportunity they give for young people to get their first foot on the employment ladder, allowing them to develop existing skills in a real working environment and get invaluable practical knowledge of work.

It is of growing recognition that there are different, but equally valuable ways into the working world, and that University is not the be all and end all. A growing number of companies are recognising that apprenticeships allow them to train people with the skills required for their business. One interesting fact that the fastest take up of apprenticeships isn’t in the 16 – 18 year old age group, at which they are primarily aimed, but in the over 25 age group, where take-up has increased by 367% in the last two years.

New research has predicted that they could contribute as much £3.4bn a year to the UK economy through productivity gains 2022. The government is committed to apprenticeships and there has been a rise of 13.9% in there availability in the last two years.

Apprenticeships are traditionally in the more practical disciplines such as Engineering, mechanics, plumbing, painting and decorating. The humble Coverall is used across the board as a simple yet effective piece of workwear that does exactly what it says on the tin, it covers all. However, the application and variation can be found in many industries.

However, new figures reveal that over half as many apprenticeships are going into retail and commerce as are going into engineering and manufacturing. So new workwear styles are being developed which suit the needs of business everywhere; whether it’s a logoed polo shirt or sweatshirt for the retail trade, or a smart shirt and trousers, or blouse and skirt for those involved in commerce.

So while coveralls maybe the traditional outfit of an apprentice, it seems that this too is changing, but if you check what is on offer on the website, I think you will find everything an apprentice needs, whatever the scenario.