Review of apprenticeships published

Many of us have become used to government schemes promoting the use of apprentices by employers, but do apprenticeships work for either employers or the apprentices themselves?

An independent review of apprenticeships led by entrepreneur, Doug Richard was published on 27 November 2012 and has been welcomed by both Education Secretary Michael Gove and Business Secretary Vince Cable. As part of his report, Mr Richard sought views from employers of all sizes, training providers, apprentices, academics, colleges and other experts. He concluded that although the current provision is good and many employers are committed to delivering exceptional opportunities to their apprentices, there is still some way to go if all apprenticeships are to live up to the standards of the very best.

Mr Richard’s key recommendations were as follows:

• Apprenticeships should last a minimum of 12 months
• The focus of apprenticeships should be on the outcome
• Recognised industry standards should apply to all apprenticeships
• Government funding must create the right incentives for apprenticeship training
• All apprentices should achieve a good standard of English and maths before their apprenticeship is completed
• Greater diversity and innovation in training should be encouraged.

The Government will issue a full response to the report in the New Year.The full report can be found on the Department for Business Education and Skills website and can be accessed here.