Modern Apprenticeship = Excuse to employ someone on the cheap. Maybe the employer receives a Government grant for every bod they sign on.
Some apprenticeships are not worth the weight of the card its printed on. I.E, not worth anything in civvy industry, certainly doesn't make you a licensed engineer. If you wanted to progress and study a BEng at university and they asked what qualifications you have and you were to turn around and say "NVQ level 2 in kicking tyres and topping up the engine oil" would they let you in? I seriously doubt it will meet the entry requirements, if recognised at all.