According to the NFB, the average cost of training an apprentice in the sector is around £22,000, which is typically paid by the employer.

The trade body also claimed that those who undertake construction apprenticeships are likely to earn £3,729 more per year in their first job compared with those who attended university.

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Others highlights included:

• an estimated 150,000 new workers will be needed in construction within the next two years
• there’s been a 60% increase in the number of women starting construction apprenticeships over the past six years
• more than 90% of Construction and Built Environment (CaBE) students found jobs in their area of study

“A-levels are a great way to start your construction career, but it’s an industry that is open to all levels of experience and education,” said Richard Beresford, chief executive at the NFB.

“If you enjoy high wages, transferable skills, no two days the same and opportunities to work abroad, then construction is the right industry for you.”