An anticipated dramatic fall in the number of graduate vacancies failed to materialise, according to research from the Association of Graduate Recruiters (AGR).

The figures show that in 2009 vacancies actually fell by 8.9% rather than the 24.9% predicted. Employers predict a 1.6% decrease in 2010 compared to cuts of 8.9% in 2009. More than half (51%) of organisations say they will have more vacancies this year than last year and only 31% predict a decrease compared to 46% last year.

The largest growth this year is among oil companies (49.7%) and consulting (47.2%), while the third sector and transport are expecting cuts of 49.2% and 13.5% respectively.

The average graduate salary, however, is predicted to remain at £25,000 for the second year in a row.

Carl Gilleard, chief executive of the AGR, says: “Today’s survey suggests that the graduate employment market is starting to normalise and to begin the process of recovery. A small decrease following a large one the year before is consistent with previous trends and, by 2011, we could be seeing vacancy increases for the first time since 2008. It is heartening to see employers remain steadfast in their commitment to graduates.”