Apprenticeships Probe Initiative

An initiative is being launched to create a commission to investigate the standards of apprenticeships across the construction industry in a bid to address the crisis.

The commission, which will be co-chaired by Conservative MP Robert Halfon and Labour Lord Glasman and launched by think-tank Demos, will focus upon the quality of the training being offered to young people and will aim to raise the number of apprentices completing the courses – falling figures show that more than 14,000 people completed an apprenticeship in 2008/09, compared to 2011/12 figures of 8,630.

Lord Glasman said, “At their best, apprenticeships help people learn from others, build a sense of vocation and deliver work of real quality. Construction is a key sector for Britain, so it is vital senior politicians support it and the future of people working in it.”

Research director for Demos, Duncan O’Leary said, “Construction accounts for 2.1 million jobs and 7% of the UK’s workforce. If we get apprenticeships right in this sector then we are on the right path. At Demos, we are delighted to be working with an expert group that crosses party political boundaries.”

The initiative will also involve plans to attract new apprentices to the industry. The construction sector is showing positive signs of improvement and quality apprenticeships begun now will help to lessen the threat of an under skilled future across the industry as a whole.

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