Apprenticeships

There are very few skilled trades that do not need reasonable Maths, science and English knowledge, certainly to GCSE.

I see that some apprenticeships today are only 1 year, at the most 4. This seems amazingly short to learn a skill. My apprenticeship was 7 years, although the last 2 years were at my option as I decided to change direction slightly.

I agree Mishap. I think there should be at least some types of apprenticeship that don't require A levels.

I suspect his may be as a result of pressure from employers who need to get young people interested in apprenticeships that need a high academic achievement. There is a shortage of applicants at this level as they head for university instead. Many skilled jobs in modern industries require that high academic knowledge.
Even 55 years ago, I needed specific academic qualifications to get my engineering apprenticeship. That was the Pre-national certificate which enable one to start on the road to an HNC/HND.

I think what he said was 2 A levels or equivalant which presumably means BTec or whatever. Back to HND or OND type studies so suiting those who are not so academic and are more practical, but have the determination and drive to work hard with an aim in mind. I believe there is a great college sponsored by JCB which offers a mix of work experience/apprenticeships in engineering, and as they are an employer they know what they need.