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The number of apprenticeships offered in the construction sector has risen over the past 12 months, according to new research.
Official figures show that 26,560 building apprenticeships began between August 2010 and July 2011, compared with 25,210 in 2009/10.
Overall, UK organisations offered 442,700 apprenticeships during the 12 month-period, a rise of around 50 per cent from the previous year when 279,700 were made available.
Business secretary Vince Cable said: "I'm particularly pleased that vital sectors like construction are continuing to back apprenticeships, despite tough economic times
"By helping firms build a stronger skills base, this investment puts businesses on solid foundations to deliver sustainable growth and a more balanced and inclusive economy."
Mr Cable added that the government will continue to strengthen its apprenticeship programme in order to get more people into work.
The report also revealed that 47,020 apprenticeship were offered in the engineering and manufacturing technologies sector, an increase of around 10,000 positions compared with 2009/10.
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