Association of Colleges

11 October 2012

 

The Association of Colleges skills policy manager, Teresa Frith, said '“While the latest statistics do suggest a slight decline in the number of 16 – 18 apprenticeships being taken up this has to be looked at in the round. AoC’s latest enrolment survey showed a number of positives in this area. For example there has been an overall increase in the number of this age group attending college.

“This comes at a time when both the Government and Opposition have highlighted the need for high quality vocational training and a fresh emphasis is being placed on the importance of work-readiness. Apprenticeships are an ideal way of smoothing the transition between education and the world of work.

“The recent Holt Review showed clearly that small and medium sized enterprises can positively benefit from taking on apprentices.

“Our members strive to provide some of the best apprenticeships options in the country and will continue to do so. The problem, however, remains that many young people simply are not being given the appropriate advice and guidance about their options post-16. AoC found last year that a mere 7% of 14-year-olds could name apprenticeships as an option. It is vital that the necessary education and careers advice is given to young people so that they can find themselves the most suitable path.”

ENDS

 

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