Philip Dunne MP visited local business on Ludlow’s business park Bikold to promote National Apprenticeship Week. Bikold currently have two apprentices working in their warehouse.
National Apprenticeship Week, running from 9th to 13th of March, celebrates apprenticeships and the positive impact on individuals, businesses and the wider economy.
Mr Dunne said: “I was delighted to visit Bikold to meet managers and apprentices and discuss how this Governments apprenticeships schemes are working for them.
Both Jamie Longstaff and Aaron Andrews told me how their apprenticeships are developing their skills. Both can walk to work, gain qualifications while earning a wage.”
“Apprenticeships have been a real success story under this Government. We have seen more than 2 million apprenticeship starts since 2010, in more than 170 different industries. Conservatives want to go further and secure another 3 million apprenticeships in the next Parliament.”
The National Audit Office has estimated that for every pound of government investment in apprenticeships, the economy gets £18 back. When wider benefits are included, the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills estimate the return on investment is even higher, at £28 for every pound of government investment.
Mr Dunne added: “90% of apprentices stay in employment after finishing their apprenticeship, showing how these qualifications are improving career prospects. County Training had a clerical apprenticeship at Bikold on offer at my jobs fair in Ludlow last month, which they will continue to look to fill.”
There is plenty of advice and support available on apprenticeships for young people and businesses. Please visit Shropshire Council’s County Training website at www.shropshire.gov.uk/county-training/ for more information.