Electrical installation is the country’s most popular vocational course with 97,411 learners currently studying to become sparkies.

General construction also features in the top ten of courses with 43,474 students while 23,369 people are also studying to become plumbers.

Across the country, vocational learning awarded through City & Guilds has risen by 11% over the last 12 months as more people train in practical trades.

The rise in the green economy is also highlighted by the number of people studying energy efficiency (2,679), conservation (619) and environmental studies (556), with qualifications in areas such as installing solar panels and domestic micro wind turbines.

Chris Jones, Director General and CEO, City & Guilds said: “Our learner data reveals that Britain really has got talent!

“Growing numbers of people are recognising the value of work-related learning and equipping themselves with the right skills and training they need to succeed and lead in today’s fast-paced economy.

“With apprenticeships and work-related learning now a firm priority on the UK’s education agenda, demand for skills-based courses has never been higher.”