Five-Point Plan To Grow U.K. Apprenticeships Launched

Former U.K. Labour and Conservative Ministers Lord Knight and Lord Willetts, with support from charity EngineeringUK, have launched a five-point plan for growing and sustaining engineering and technology apprenticeships for young people. Recognizing the critical importance of engineering and technology for the U.K. and the sector’s growing workforce needs, the new report is the culmination of a comprehensive inquiry — seeking to find solutions to reverse the worrying decline in apprenticeship starts seen in the sector over recent years. Based on insights gathered from businesses, education providers and young people, the report contains five key policy recommendations for all political parties to consider: rebalance education, support young people, refocus funding, enable businesses and encourage employers to take action. It calls on government, along with employers and providers, to work together as a matter of urgency, to rebalance and refocus apprenticeships to make them accessible for young people. The full inquiry report, “Fit for the future: A 5-point plan to grow and sustain engineering and technology apprenticeships for young people” is available online.