Some industries,/employers do not hire apprentices at this time of year. For some reason they like to hire in the new year.....go figure. Although I don't get it, I am looking to start a new apprentice....in the new year (different trade sorry). For me it about timing with my current app, finishing at the end of Jan.
I originally left school into the AME trade, and the only way I got the job I did was through persistance. My chosen employer had had a bad experience with my predescor and didn't want another app. I persisted and he gave me a chance....then we got the recession we had to have and half his work force was wiped out overnight.
I had to front and push, and keep fronting, it was tough.
good luck!
Jas