A poll of 2,000 mums and dads with children under 16 found 60 per cent have encouraged them to learn a skill like plumbing or engineering, or to become a car mechanic.
In fact, 51 per cent regret not pursuing a more practical career themselves.
And 56 per cent wish they could have made more of a difference to people’s lives in their jobs.
The research was commissioned by British Gas, which has committed to creating 3,500 apprenticeships over the next decade.
James Jennings, apprenticeship manager at energy and home services provider, said: “It’s really encouraging to see that taking up a trade is becoming more desirable among younger people and it’s good to know parents are supportive of this decision.
“Practical careers provide the chance to make a tangible difference to people’s lives as well as helping out in local communities, which can be extremely rewarding.”
The study also found 40 per cent of parents are keen for their children to make a positive difference to customers, and 39 per cent added that always having work available is a bonus.
A decent salary (37 per cent), managing your own work life balance (32 per cent) and being your own boss (32 per cent) also featured in the appeal.
And 42 per cent of parents love the idea of their child learning valuable skills to set them up for life, with 65 per cent believing these are becoming more varied due to ever-evolving technology.
Engineers (32 per cent), electricians (31 per cent) and builders (28 per cent) are the top three trades parents hope their child will choose.
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