Most firms expect to maintain or increase investment in training their workforce amid expanded links between businesses and schools and colleges, a new study suggests.

Research by the CBI and learning company Pearson indicates that employers spent £44 billion on training in 2017.

A survey of over 200 businesses and trade associations found that almost two out of three plan to increase their apprenticeship training, although most wanted the apprenticeship levy to be reformed.

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Nine out of 10 of those polled said they have a partnership with schools, colleges and universities.

Matthew Fell, chief UK policy director at CBI, said: “Education is a top priority for business, who understand its impact on productivity and living standards.

“Firms are generally happy with the academic knowledge of young people applying for jobs in the past year but prioritise ‘work readiness’ when recruiting school and college leavers.

“It’s clear that more emphasis is needed on ensuring young people have the character, behaviours and attributes to succeed in the world of work.

“Businesses place a high value on young people having relevant work experience, and are stepping up to provide this, for example, by increasing their presence in secondary schools and colleges.”