Apprenticeship Plans are ‘Mixed Bag’ For Business

Responding to the Government’s plans for apprenticeships in England, Alex Veitch, Director of Policy at the British Chambers of Commerce said:

“Apprenticeships are high-quality, valued qualifications and businesses welcome the funding boost announced by Government.

“The BCC has long called for flexibility in the Growth and Skills Levy for employers to invest in pre-apprenticeship training to provide more pathways into technical and vocational careers.

“At a time when there are nearly 1 million NEET young people in the UK, employers will welcome the new Foundation Apprenticeships, with a financial incentive, in key skills shortage areas such as construction.

“However, defunding the majority of Level 7 apprenticeship opportunities is deeply disappointing. We recognise the funding challenges ministers are facing, but skills gaps at higher levels need to be addressed if the Government is to deliver its industrial strategy and growth missions.

“Employers stand ready to work with Skills England to make sure other types of training under the Growth and Skills Levy meet local needs.”