The Government has launched a new service to make it easier for companies to take on apprentices and boost the number of people taking apprenticeships.
The National Apprenticeship Service launched yesterday with the aim of streamlining the application process and giving support and advice to both apprentices and their employers.
Chef apprentices from Westminster Kingsway College (pictured, right) were at the launch to help underline the importance of apprenticeships in the hospitality sector. According to research for the Learning and Skills Council, 94 per cent of apprentices believe it has given them better job prospects, higher salaries and more confidence.
Simon Waugh chief executive of the NAS said: “Apprentices make things happen. Research and detailed case studies have consistently demonstrated they are vital to businesses and the economy, helping increase productivity and competitiveness. The NAS will build on this success by ensuring businesses are more informed of these benefits and can take advantage of them by offering Apprenticeship places."
The NAS has invested £1.1bn to help deliver 129,000 Apprenticeships over the next year.
One company which has already committed to boosting the number of apprenticeships is Living Ventures, which has introduced its own management training scheme.
Yesterday, culture, media and sport secretary Andy Burnham visited the company’s Grill restaurant in Manchester to see how the scheme, endorsed by the National Skills Academy, works first hand.
"Apprentices add real value to businesses as well as making sure we attract the highest talent to the sector and I`m pleased to support the Living Ventures management programme and their work with the Academy to make this available across the industry. As we face tough economic times it is even more vital to make sure we equip people with the necessary skills for a long and successful working future," he said.
National Skills Academy unveils plans to plug skills shortage