Apprenticeship programme not up to scratch, committee says

AN influential committee headed up by West Bromwich West Labour MP Adrian Bailey has criticised the Government’s apprenticeship programme for lacking “clarity and purpose”.

A report from the Business, Innovation and Skills Committee said this has led to confusion among employers and apprentices alike.

MPs have urged ministers to set out a clear strategy and purpose for its apprenticeships policy and warned the funding process is “unnecessarily complex”.

The report also argues that success should not be measured simply by growing the number of people starting apprenticeships.

As part of their research, MPs on the committee travelled around to talk to people involved in apprenticeship schemes.

Committee chairman Bailey said: “The apprenticeship programme can play a key role in resolving some of this county’s most pressing issues. It can help us to create a more skilled workforce, to increase employment and to generate sustainable economic growth.

“But money does not guarantee success. The apprenticeship programme needs clarity, oversight and, in these straightened times, to demonstrate that it is providing value for money.

“There are many areas that require closer scrutiny, careful monitoring or even complete reform.”

The report calls for a clear definition of apprenticeships that stresses the development of new skills rather than consolidation of existing ones.

It also urges the National Apprenticeship Service to do more to engage with young people while they are still at school.