Marking National Apprenticeship Week, Andrew Percy has welcomed the 76.1% increase in the number of people starting an apprenticeship in Goole and Brigg constituency last year.

The Government is delivering unprecedented funding for new apprenticeships. In addition, the Prime Minister has announced that from 7 February 2012:

• Businesses and training providers can bid for a share of £6 million from the Higher Apprenticeship Fund, which will support the development of thousands of new Higher Apprenticeships in sectors including aerospace, energy and renewable technologies.

• Small and medium-sized businesses without any apprentices who hire one aged 16-24 are eligible for a £1,500 bonus, with up to 40,000 payments available.

• Businesses can bid for a share of a £250 million fund to boost skills in their workplace, giving employers rather than training providers direct access to funding for training.

Andrew Percy said:

“Apprenticeships are something I have championed since I was elected as I passionately believe we need to restore them to the standing this once had. In recent years, too much focus has been on getting young people to University which is not always the right route for everyone.

National Apprenticeship Week is a great opportunity to congratulate apprentices across our area on the fantastic work they are doing and to highlight the huge benefits apprenticeships bring.

“Apprenticeships allow people to earn and learn at the same time, while significantly increasing their potential future earnings. But the benefits go wider than that – every £1 spent on an apprenticeship returns an estimated benefit of £18 to the economy.

“That’s why it is such great news that 350 more people locally started an apprenticeship last year thanks to the Coalition’s extra investment – a 76.1% increase on the previous year.

“I would urge people of all ages to consider becoming an apprentice and seize the opportunities that this government has opened up.”