2024-11-05 03:30:00
Work-study training has seen significant growth in the space of ten years, with today just over a million apprentices in France (an increase of more than 150%, according to DARES). This clear progression is correlated with a change in perception of learning paths, whatever they may be: the 2024 barometer from the IGENSIA Education Group highlights in particular that work-study training benefits from a very positive image among the French, the majority considering that it allows you to start earning a living. This underlines the social vocation of work-study, which constitutes the only remunerative model during studies, and which therefore allows a certain volume of learners to continue their studies.
Furthermore, work-study is often a unique life opportunity for many students: 60% would not have continued their studies without work-study, and for 53% of them, work-study saved them from the academic failure. Recruiting companies, for their part, have the advantage of being able to train young people for a tailor-made profession. A real time saver in the recruitment process, the admission of work-study students among the ranks of employees also makes it possible to retain employees and consolidate human capital, with a dimension of community and transmission. This is the first reason cited by employers to justify the implementation of apprenticeship contracts, at 55% (IGENSIA Barometer).
Apprenticeship, initially perceived as a path reserved for intermediate qualification levels, is now asserting itself as a preferred gateway to long-term studies. According to DARES data, nearly 70% of apprentices continue their studies beyond the Baccalaureate, and 30% of them even aim for a Bac+5 level diploma. In addition, the employability rate of young people from work-study programs remains exceptionally high: 80% of apprentices (at Igensia Education, the rate is between 91 and 100%) find a job within six months following the end of their training.
This increase in qualification, encouraged by financial support schemes such as aid of 6,000 euros for hiring apprentices, reinforces the appeal of work-study training to families. 83% of parents now consider this path as a springboard for their children’s future (IGENSIA Barometer).
On the current debates within the government and in particular on the elimination or reduction of exceptional aid, the IGENSIA Education Group is in favor of a gradual and educational reduction. It would thus be possible to spread it over the entire duration of the apprenticeship contract and therefore over several budgetary years. At the same time, it could be interesting to keep this aid for young people from priority neighborhoods in order to be consistent with prioritization. Apprenticeship must remain a lever for social advancement today.
Work-study is not only a training path, but a real career accelerator. Work-study training must be seen as an investment that allows young people to build solid professional experience while continuing their studies with quality support. It is also a powerful lever for equal opportunities, particularly thanks to financial support schemes which make education accessible to all. Today, it is a popular path for those who want to combine experience and skills.
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**Interview with Dr. Elise Fontaine, Education and Workforce Development Expert**
**Interviewer:** Good morning, Dr. Fontaine. Thank you for joining us today to discuss the evolving landscape of work-study training programs in France.
**Dr. Fontaine:** Good morning! It’s my pleasure to be here.
**Interviewer:** The recent data shows a significant increase in the number of apprentices in France, with over a million now participating in work-study programs. What do you attribute this growth to?
**Dr. Fontaine:** The growth can be attributed to several factors. Firstly, there’s a shift in the perception of these programs among both students and employers. Work-study is increasingly viewed as a viable pathway toward employment, allowing students to earn while they learn. This is incredibly appealing, especially in a competitive job market.
**Interviewer:** You mentioned perceptions changing. What does the latest barometer from the IGENSIA Education Group indicate about public opinion on work-study training?
**Dr. Fontaine:** The barometer highlights that the majority of the French population views work-study positively, recognizing it as a practical approach to education that equips students with relevant skills. Most respondents believe it allows young people to start earning a living while continuing their studies, which is a crucial factor for many families.
**Interviewer:** Interestingly, you mentioned that 60% of students would not have pursued their studies without work-study. Can you elaborate on the implications of this?
**Dr. Fontaine:** Absolutely. This statistic underscores the social impact of work-study programs. For many students, financial constraints are a significant barrier to education. Work-study provides the necessary support to continue their studies, preventing academic failure for a substantial portion of the cohort. It essentially makes education more accessible to a broader audience.
**Interviewer:** How do employers benefit from hiring work-study students?
**Dr. Fontaine:** Employers benefit greatly, primarily through tailored training for roles specific to their companies. The IGENSIA Barometer indicates that 55% of employers implement apprenticeship contracts for this reason. Not only does it save time in recruitment, but it also fosters loyalty and retention among apprentices, who feel more connected to the organization.
**Interviewer:** Lastly, the data suggests a rising trend where nearly 70% of apprentices continue their studies beyond the Baccalaureate. What does this mean for the future workforce?
**Dr. Fontaine:** This trend is very promising. It signals that work-study is not only a bridge to immediate employment but also a pathway to higher qualifications. With 30% aiming for Bac+5 diplomas, we’re likely to see a more skilled workforce which, in turn, will contribute to the economy and innovation in various sectors.
**Interviewer:** Thank you for your insights, Dr. Fontaine. It’s clear that work-study programs are transforming the educational landscape in France.
**Dr. Fontaine:** Thank you for having me! It’s an exciting time for education and workforce development.
