Major apprenticeships reform launched as UK marks National Apprenticeships Week

Peter Lamb MP, has welcomed the news that young people will be given a quicker route into high-quality jobs on major projects as the government slashes red tape to fast-track the process, and pledges to work with local partners and business to make sure young people living in Crawley can benefit.

The latest reforms come as the government ramps up support for young people to take up apprenticeships, including a recent £725 million investment to pivot the system towards the workforce of the future.

The government is also set to pilot a university clearance-style system where ‘near miss’ applicants who don’t secure their top choice apprenticeship will be re-directed to similar opportunities in their area. This will mean employers – particularly small and medium-sized businesses – gain access to a stronger pipeline of motivated young talent, helping to close skills gaps.

Crawley has a long-history of apprenticeships and since the publication of Crawley’s first Employment and Skills Plan in 2014, public and private sector organisations have been working hard to increase the availability and attractiveness of apprenticeships in the town, as part of efforts to improve social mobility.

Peter Lamb MP said:

“Over the last week I’ve met with apprentices from a variety of Crawley-based businesses. It’s clear the difference that an apprenticeship is making for these young people and I hope with the Government’s recent announcements many more local children stand to benefit from the opportunity an apprenticeship provides.”