Over-70s keep retirement on hold to sign up as apprentices

♦ Apprentices aged over 70 are joining schemes run by leading British firms, it has been revealed.

Growing numbers of pensioners have been encouraged to apply for work placements, going against common perception the roles are taken up by school leavers.

Co-op Funeralcare said it had exceeded its target of recruiting an apprentice every day in 2018 and planned to create another 400 places this year.

The company’s apprentices range from 21 to 71 years old, sometimes switching careers from jobs including the civil service.

Karen Seth, of Co-op Funeral and Life Planning, said the firm was still attracting a strong pool of applicants six years after its programme started. Restaurant giant Mcdonald’s said it planned to double its apprenticeship opportunities this year, creating 750 placements. New starters and existing employees will be covered by new training opportunities.

Harriet Hounsell, chief people officer at Mcdonald’s UK, said: “There can be a perception that apprentices are just school-leavers, or for technical roles, but there are many in retail and hospitality and for all ages.”

Halfords Autocentres announced a new five-year apprenticeships plan in response to the growing demand for hybrid and electric cars.

The firm, which this year will invest £800,000, said its aim was to have an apprentice in every Autocentre. It comes as the Government launches its annual National Apprenticeship Week.