Sylvia Heal

Labour Party | Halesowen and Rowley Regis

Local MP backs Government commitment to apprenticeships

Sylvia Heal has today backed the Government commitment to increasing the number and availability of apprenticeships.

Over the last ten years the Government have increased the number of apprenticeships by 175,000 with the completion rate rising by 38%. The Government have pledged to introduce an entitlement to an apprenticeship place to every school-leaver who meets the entry criteria. £90m will also be invested over the next three years to fund £30,000 additional 25+ apprenticeship places. 

Sylvia Heal MP said: “I am pleased that young people in the Black Country are already taking advantage of apprenticeships in a wide range of subjects. In 2005/06 700 people completed apprenticeships in Sandwell and 800 in Dudley which was over a 40% increase than in previous years.

“That is why I am delighted that the Government is firmly committed to apprenticeships; I think that the increased investment and pledge to allow every school leaver the opportunity to take one will help is a significant step forward. The new diplomas that are being introduced in the coming years will help increase the role of vocational education widening many young peoples access to education”.