Greg Hands M.P. has welcomed new measures from the Government, which will ensure young people and small businesses feel the full benefits of the successful expansion of apprenticeships.
Data released last month showed that in Chelsea and Fulham:
- · 100 people started an apprenticeship in 2009/10.
- · 230 people started an apprenticeship in 2010/11.
This means the number starting an apprenticeship locally has already more than doubled under the Coalition.
On 16th November 2011, the Government announced it will be:
- · Offering cash bonuses for taking on young apprentices. The Government will offer employers with 50 employees or fewer up to £1,500 for taking on an apprentice aged between 16 and 24. This will support up to 20,000 new apprenticeships in 2012/13.
- · Making it quicker and easier for employers to take on an apprentice. The National Apprenticeships Service and training providers will be required to ensure that every employer is able to advertise a vacancy within one month of deciding to take on an apprentice.
- · Targeting apprenticeships where they are needed. The programme will focus on younger adults, new employees, higher level qualifications and particular sectors where apprenticeships can make the greatest impact.
- · Equipping apprentices with basic skills. Apprenticeship providers will be required to offer all apprentices training in English and Maths up to the standard of a good GCSE.
- · Ensuring high standards. A review has been launched into the standards and quality of apprenticeships, undertaken by a leading employer and reporting in the Spring.
Commenting, Greg Hands M.P. said: “In Chelsea and Fulham, 130 more people are benefiting from an apprenticeship thanks to the government’s extra funding. That’s not just great news for them, but also for the whole local economy.
“Too many businesses have been put off taking on an apprentice because of unnecessary bureaucracy and red tape. That’s now changing.
“I would urge local companies to take advantage of the new system and give our young people these vital opportunities.”