APPRENTICESHIPS are to become a more widely recognised route into higher education.

From next year, people undertaking level three and four apprenticeship will accrue UCAS points.

This means they will be able to use their training towards qualifying for a place on a university course – without having completed A-levels or similar academic courses.

Simon Beardsley, chief executive of Lincolnshire Chamber of Commerce, said the move will benefit businesses.

"There is an argument to say that a university qualification may be of greater value to the individual, and business, following an apprenticeship as the individual will have made their career choice and this will have been supported though their apprenticeship," he said.

"This new entry method to university builds on some of the practical skills and knowledge that employees pick up when working within a business setting, and recognises that individuals learn in different ways and at different paces."

At present, a top grade A-level is worth 120 points and a top grade AS level is worth 60 points, making it far easier for a student on a traditional college course to study at university.

From 2011, all of the advanced NVQ qualifications will be awarded UCAS points.

Karen Woodward, National Apprenticeship Scheme (NAS) regional director, said: "This year, 8,625 16-year-olds will be leaving school and going into the world of work in Lincolnshire. It is essential these young people are given the opportunities that they deserve. The NAS is now working with UCAS to ensure more apprenticeship qualifications will count towards an individual's university application."

A report compiled by the University of Sheffield has found apprentices can earn up to £100,000 more during their lifetime than those who go straight into employment.

Gordon Gillespie, vice principal of curriculum and quality at Lincoln College, said: "The college will be working hard to promote this progression across our wide and varied apprenticeship offer. For example, a large proportion of our apprentices in the construction and engineering sectors would be extremely well-suited to the vocational and employer-led curriculum of a foundation degree."