Apprenticeships can help employers train staff in a wide selection of areas, one expert has stated.
Stephen Gardner, director of apprenticeships at the Learning and Skills Council, explains that there is a popular misconception that such schemes only cover sectors such as construction and engineering.
However, there in fact 180 apprenticeship frameworks on offer, he points out.
Mr Gardner said: "They also include things like accountancy, media studies or training, IT and cultural and creative apprenticeships. So the range of apprenticeships that is available is much wider than employers realise."
There are currently 26 sector skills councils that are responsible for making sure that there is a framework in place for every job role that there is a demand for, he added.
Recently, the finalists for the 2008 National Apprenticeship Awards were announced.
The prizes seek to recognise the work of employers that use such schemes to help tackle skills gaps within their firm.
