Overview
Our infographic dashboards offer a snapshot of the key data EngineeringUK holds on a given topic. This dashboard focuses on educational pathways into engineering and technology.
There are many educational routes into a career in engineering and tech. We need all young people to understand the variety of options available to them so they can see a path for themselves into these careers. As parents and teachers are the main sources of careers information to young people, it is important to also understand their level of knowledge.
This dashboard looks at young people’s understanding and perceptions of academic, technical and vocational routes into engineering and technology roles. It also explores parental and teacher knowledge, as well as teacher confidence in advising students on this career path.
Educational pathways infographic dashboard
Published
September 2025
Who this is for
- Careers leads
- Employers
- Policymakers
- PEIs
- Researchers
- STEM outreach organisations
- Teachers
Key findings
- Young people interested in an engineering career prefer a technical or vocational route (36%) compared to a university route (28%)
- Teachers are equally likely to recommend an apprenticeship or university route (36%), but are less likely to opt for another technical or vocational route (4%)
- Earning straight away and preferring practical learning are the key reasons for preferring technical or vocational routes like apprenticeships
- Keeping career options open, getting better paid jobs in the long run, and the general university experience are key motivators for the university route
- Parents are knowledgeable about university and apprenticeship routes, but less knowledgeable about BTECs, T Levels and other vocational routes
