A post by Skills for Security.
Latest figures show that UK unemployment has risen from 4.7 to 4.8 per cent in the three months to August, reaching a four-year high that reflects broader uncertainty.
Artificial intelligence and automation continue to transform how people work. Many entry-level roles that once offered young people their first opportunity in full-time employment have either disappeared or evolved into positions requiring new technical abilities.
Apprenticeships have become one of the most effective ways to develop such skills. They support a direct route into employment while giving organisations the chance to build capability from within. For industries facing long-term skills shortages, they provide a sustainable solution rather than a short-term fix.
The security industry is well documented as a sector reporting difficulties finding people with the right balance of technical knowledge, regulatory understanding and hands-on experience. As systems become more sophisticated and customers expect integrated, intelligent solutions, the demand for skilled professionals who can operate confidently in complex environments continues to grow.
Latest security work includes electronic access control, fire protection, data networks and cloud-based management platforms. These technologies require people who understand how they function and how to apply them safely and effectively. Apprenticeships provide that grounding and produce individuals who can adapt as technology evolves.
Apprenticeships develop capable professionals who are ready to contribute from the start of their careers. Learners consistently gain both technical knowledge and the practical judgement needed to maintain safety, compliance and quality.
Skills for Security works closely with its partner network to ensure programmes reflect current technology, legislation and working practices. This collaboration keeps training relevant while also building essential soft skills such as communication, teamwork and planning.
For businesses, Apprenticeships create a dependable route to recruit and train new staff while shaping that training around the organisation’s specific needs. Many companies that once struggled to find experienced candidates are now investing in their own people, strengthening loyalty and ensuring continuity within their teams.
National data shows the steady improvement. Between August 2024 and April 2025, apprenticeship starts increased by two per cent to 284,190. Learner participation rose by 2.2 per cent to 703,110, and completions grew by eight per cent to 128,290.
Within the security sector, these figures are mirrored by rising engagement from employers who are using apprenticeships to meet their workforce requirements. Higher completion rates show how learners are staying on course and progressing into permanent roles, which supports long-term workforce planning and helps stabilise our industry.
Despite this progress, apprenticeships still do suffer from outdated perceptions. They are still often viewed as a secondary option compared with university study, even though many now lead to recognised qualifications at degree level. In practice, they offer a direct and financially sustainable path into skilled employment, combining learning with real responsibility and true progression.
For young people, apprenticeships provide the chance to gain qualifications, earn a wage and develop skills that are immediately relevant to employers. For businesses, they produce professionals who understand current standards and can contribute to operational performance from the outset.
Apprenticeships are now a core part of how the security industry develops skilled people. Continued investment will determine how the sector can meet future demand with a workforce that is capable, confident and ready for change.
