Industrial Strategy Jobs Plans for professional and business services and construction were published on 19 October, ahead of the final Milburn review. Professional services firms committed to 22,400 apprenticeships a year for under 25s over five years and a 20% increase in work experience across areas including accountancy, law, AI, cyber security and data analytics.

The sector will track recruitment and support for young people who are NEET, while promoting the Living Wage, Good Jobs Standard, AI literacy and greater salary transparency.

Construction will provide 40,000 placements a year towards an ambition of 100,000 annual job opportunities. A new Construction Apprenticeship Network will help smaller firms recruit apprentices, alongside stronger workforce planning.

Defence firms will increase work experience and pathways for NEET young people by 25% and introduce a “no wrong door” approach. Further plans for Digital and Technologies, Defence, Advanced Manufacturing and Creative Industries will follow.

Backed by a £2.5bn youth employment package, the plans include 50,000 additional apprenticeships and incentives of up to £2,000 for small and medium sized businesses employing a 16 to 24 year old apprentice. Mayors, employers and Local Skills Improvement Plans will shape local delivery