Almost half of young people believe becoming a tradesperson offers a faster route to earning £100,000 than going to university, according to a new poll. The survey of 2,000 adults under 28 found that only 19% think pursuing a degree over an apprenticeship is a good idea, with many citing concerns over student debt and a desire to buy a home sooner.
The research, commissioned by Draper Tools, revealed that 40% of respondents view apprenticeships as a better option, while more than a third are keen to avoid mounting student debt. Over half (53%) think they will be able to purchase a home faster if they enter a trade rather than attend university, and 32% are eager to start earning money promptly.
Beyond financial considerations, the appeal of hands-on work is growing. One in four prefer a role that is not desk-based, and 60% consider working in a trade a 'cool job'. The poll also highlighted that 33% of young people are worried about the impact of AI on their future careers, making trades more attractive. The most popular trade careers among those considering a switch are painting and decorating (32%), electrical work (20%), and landscaping (20%).
Sarah Hartland from Draper Tools commented: “With such high university fees and interest rates, there is a growing number of young people looking at apprenticeships as the best way forward… we know that there are critical skills shortages in many trades, so this current interest may turn out to be a real positive for the future of the UK’s construction sector.”
