Why we must make apprenticeships fit for the future

Dec 1, 2023

Female apprentice mechanical engineer uses robot

In our most recent column for The Engineer, EngineeringUK Chief Executive Dr Hilary Leevers explains the necessity of growing the number of available apprenticeships in engineering, manufacturing, and technology for the younger generation, while also delving into strategies to address the associated challenges.

She writes: "Earlier this year we launched an inquiry – chaired by Lord Willetts and Lord Knights – to understand the reasons behind this decline and make recommendations on how to reverse it. So, what have we learnt?

"The evidence we gathered suggests that while businesses do value those who have come via an apprenticeship route, many, particularly smaller firms, are struggling to find the capacity and resources to take on young apprentices. Companies are also concerned about the quality of training provision and barriers in relation to apprenticeship standards and bureaucracy.

"If we are to achieve the diverse future workforce needed for engineering and technology to thrive, it’s vital that all those involved in training the next generation and delivering apprenticeships take responsibility for the role they play in improving their offer and uptake in the sector."

Read the full column in The Engineer

 

Image: © This is Engineering

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