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What level is he working at or interested in?In general an apprenticeship leads to more manual practical qualifications while university degrees focus more on the science behind it. And people with the latter are more likely to be the ones managing the former.At the extreme ends of the spectrum it could mean the difference between being a car mechanic doing routine MOTs or being a research engineer designing the next generation of engines.

no answers but more questions which might help to clarify his thoughts, because to me it doesnt really seem like a straightforward either/or choice does he like academic work, how does he cope with examsdoes he want to start earning his own moneywhat would he gain by doing A levels rather than the apprenticeship if Uni will accept the qualification he does gainif at the end of the apprenticship is there an opportunity for sponsorship from the company, for uni engineering courses often have placement years, he would have a big advantage, maybe also for vacation employmentMoving away from home but living with a family will start buiding his independence. Also that extra year will add to this maturity and may give him a better and more productive university experiencedoing the apprenticeship doent mean that he cant go to univerity at the end of it. solid practical experience with a reputable company may give him the edge over wet behind the ears 18 year olds who dont know one end of a spanner from the otherjust a few thoughts

Hi Ham, there aren't many space agencies around so I would guess that this is one of the really prestigious new schemes. Definitely go for it! As kangas says though, you need to check out the level of the initial qualification offered and also typical expected progression routes (they may be vague about these if it's a new scheme as they won't have people further down the line).Engineering apprenticeships in general have always had an excellent reputation. The top ones are highly competitive with sometimes hundreds of applicants for a handful of places. So putting in a strong and carefully tailored application would be a very good idea. But at the same time keep up enthusiasm for the 'A' level and/or college route. Sixteen year olds don't have sufficient experience to judge their likelihood of being picked and they can easily over-invest in an idea at this stage. I would encourage him to have several irons in the fire over the next few months and try to keep an open balanced attitude to the different options.