National Apprenticeships Week

This week is National Apprenticeships Week.

I am the Lib Dem spokesperson on the Council's Economy, Employment and Skills Committee. On Wednesday we had a very interesting item about creating apprenticeships in the Construction Industry. I asked about how the apprenticeships created under this scheme are benefiting all areas of Manchester and asked for a break down of the number of apprentices in each ward. I also pressed the Council to pay particular attention to creating apprenticeships in 'Green' construction industries.

I was also delighted that this week Chorlton MP John Leech launched a campaign to get local companies to take on 100 new apprentices in his constituency in the next 100 days.

John met with the National Apprenticeship Service (NAS) to support their work, and is writing to scores of local businesses this week calling on them to take on an apprentice, or an additional apprentice. Next month he is the key note speaker at a Council run apprentice business breakfast at Fielden Park. He wants to visit local businesses across south Manchester to see what more can be done to get more apprenticeships locally.

John said: "As part of National Apprenticeships week, I am launching a campaign to get 100 new apprenticeship in 100 days. It is a struggle for young people locally to find meaningful work, and that is why I am passionate about creating more apprenticeships across south Manchester.”

Liberal Democrat Business Secretary, Vince Cable said:

“National Apprenticeships Week is the time to celebrate the countless achievements of learners and employers, and to call on more firms to hire an apprentice and enjoy the competitive advantage they can bring to a business.

“I am very proud of the fact that at a time of financial constraint this Coalition Government has prioritised investment in apprenticeships. This has led to the creation of record numbers of apprenticeships combined with tough new standards to drive up quality.

“Apprenticeships are at the centre of the Coalition’s skills policy because we know that they work. Not only do they provide individuals with the skills they need for prosperous and rewarding careers, they also boost businesses’ profits and drive growth in the wider economy.

“We are providing extra help to enable small employers to hire their first apprentices. We will also continue to develop new advanced and higher-level apprenticeships to deliver the world-class skills individuals and firms need to get ahead.”

If you are interested in creating an apprenticeship or know someone that may be please get in touch (victor.libdem@ymail.com; 07947383740).