London leads the UK on AI readiness, but workers with the skills may not be willing to stay
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London’s workforce tops the nation in readiness for future industry changes, yet new data reveals a significant retention risk, with 67% of employees willing to leave their current role for better development opportunities elsewhere – the highest figure in the UK.
The data from Arden University also shows that almost four fifths (78%) of London workers feel prepared for the future, including changes being brought about by new technologies and AI, 21% above the national average.
Londoners also show exceptionally high confidence in their leadership abilities (92% vs. 78% UK average) and a strong understanding of future industry issues (93% vs. 84% UK average).
This highly capable and aware talent pool also has a strong appetite for learning, with seven in ten (71%) saying they would consider an apprenticeship if it was offered to them. For employers, this means apprenticeships are becoming a critical retention strategy as much as a skills strategy. Those who fail to offer visible, credible development pathways risk losing their best talent in an increasingly AI-enabled market.
Steven Hurst, Director of Corporate Learning at Arden University, commented on the findings: “Retention is increasingly about future skills. Businesses that stand up apprenticeship pathways now won’t just fill vacancies, they’ll keep their best people.
“Apprenticeships are a fantastic way to bridge the gap between education and the workforce, offering hands-on experience and practical skills that traditional classroom learning often can’t provide. They allow individuals to earn while they learn, gaining industry-specific knowledge under the guidance of experienced professionals – certainly an aspect more people should take advantage of.
“The benefits don’t stop there. Apprenticeships also help to cultivate a skilled workforce, tailored to business needs, helping employers to stay ahead of technological advances and the deep changes in skills that are needed to survive this economy.”
Despite this regional challenge, the economic argument for apprenticeships remains compelling. Apprenticeships deliver outsized returns for both employers and the wider economy, with every £1 invested generating a return on investment of approximately £21. In terms of productivity, apprentices contribute between £33,000 and £49,0001 in annual value, often covering the cost of their training while they learn.
In light of National Apprenticeship Week, Arden University is urging London employers to scale up their higher-level and leadership apprenticeships. The university calls on businesses to ring-fence apprenticeship places and visibly back staff to enrol during National Apprenticeship Week.
To find out more, visit Arden University’s website.
