Just to add that some airlines also do appenticeships - BA, Moanarch and First Choice to name a few, but check with other engineering companies like FlyBe, KLM UK, SR Technics, etc.
At the VERY last effort - try the RAF! They will pay for your self-studies as you progress through your Term and you will get some good training and experience.
Unfortunately nowadays, you need 'formal' training to get into the better paid jobs - and not many people do training!
Best of Luck, whichever way your son goes.
Rigga