Apprenticeships are a real success story; they are essential for the future growth and prosperity of Britain. The Government’s drive to provide people of all ages with the skills to compete in a challenging marketplace has been significant. In December an important landmark was reached with the two millionth apprenticeship start in this parliament.
In my constituency recent data released by the National Apprenticeship Survey shows that from 2013 to 2014 Kenilworth and Southam generated 450 apprenticeship starts. This outstanding achievement has helped support local business and provided individuals with the opportunity to develop new skills that will last a lifetime.
I believe it is important that we raise the status of apprenticeships and I want every young person leaving school to view an apprenticeship or going to university as of equal merit. To achieve this we must ensure apprenticeships are of a high quality and valued by employers. Putting businesses in the driving seat over the design of apprenticeships is raising standards and ensuring apprenticeships are rigorous as well as responsive to employer's needs.
Campaigns such as the National Apprenticeship Week 2015 will help to raise awareness and celebrate the benefits of apprenticeships to the economy. This is taking place between 9th and 13th March and aims to increase the number of workplaces involved in apprenticeships from 10% to 20% by 2016.