Scotland’s mid-sized employers look to invest in apprenticeships
“We know there is a shortage of high-quality, degree level apprenticeships” – Mark McCluskey, BDO
More than half of Scotland’s mid-sized businesses are planning to ramp up apprenticeship hiring during 2026, new research would suggest.
The survey of 500 leaders of mid-sized companies reveals that 39 per cent intend to start hiring apprentices, while 16 per cent are increasing the number of apprentices they hire.
The research from accountancy and advisory firm BDO comes after Scotland recently passed its Tertiary Education and Training (Funding and Governance) bill, to redesign its skills landscape so that it works better for employers and the overall economy.
Separate research from BDO’s “Young Minds” survey of some 2,000 people aged 18 to 25 in the UK showed that while apprenticeships are a popular career route, 16 per cent of young people are unaware of degree-level apprenticeships, with others finding access to quality apprenticeships a barrier. Location also remains a challenge, with 15 per cent of university students or graduates north of the Border saying that they would have reconsidered their choice to go to university if they lived somewhere with more apprenticeship opportunities.
Mark McCluskey, regional managing partner at BDO in Scotland, said: “It’s encouraging to see so many mid-sized businesses, the engine of the UK economy, doubling down on their apprenticeship hiring, despite challenging economic conditions.
“Apprenticeships are by no means a new concept, but we know there is a shortage of high-quality, degree level apprenticeships. Those that do exist are often found in specific pockets of the UK making them less accessible to young people who are unable or unwilling to relocate.”
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He added: “A national programme linking local businesses with local schools and colleges would be a great next step. As is increasing the promotion of apprenticeships during the UCAS clearing process, so that those who have been unsuccessful in their chosen course are offered a whole range of options, not just university.”
Specialist fulfilment and logistics provider Staci operates nine sites across the UK. The group employs more than 500 people and operates one million square feet of warehousing capacity.
Human resources director Amanda Harvey said: “Our apprenticeships have led to permanent roles or promotions within warehouse management, HR and procurement and have often been followed by Staci-funded professional qualifications. We also offer apprenticeships to existing team members to enhance their skills and try something new.
“The range of apprenticeship courses available remains limited, and training programmes can be lengthy. In some cases this makes it difficult to recruit apprentices at much less than the salaries of experienced team members, whilst the employer also funds the qualification and has to support and backfill off the job learning time.
“Additional government support, such as salary subsidies for apprentices, could help make apprenticeships a more viable and attractive option, and reduce the risk of early-career talent being drawn towards short-term roles that offer higher immediate pay but offer no skills development,” she added. “Despite the challenges, we are passionate about bringing more young people into the supply chain sector.”
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