Listen to this story Members can listen to an AI-generated audio version of this article. 1.0x Audio narration uses an AI-generated voice. 0:00 0:00 Become a member to listen to this article Subscribe The government’s new ‘deal for young people’ and renewed focus on youth apprenticeships is a welcome step towards reversing the long-term decline in under-25 apprenticeship starts. But if this ambition is to succeed, we must recognise a fundamental truth: the problem is not a lack of interest from young people. Every month, Lifetime receives more than 5,000 applications from young adults looking for apprenticeship opportunities, yet vacancies fall well short of demand. Become a member for unlimited access to FE Week subscribe Our members enjoy early access to exclusive content and in-depth articles before anyone else. Get expert journalism on FE and skills, experience fewer ads, and unlock a growing range of member benefits.