Gordon Brown’s first Queen’s Speech under his premiership has seen new plans unveiled for apprenticeships that aim to keep young people in education until they are 18.

The speech also announced new rights to skills training for adults, including funding for NVQ Level 3 qualifications for those aged 19-25.

The government aims to more than double the 250 000 people in apprenticeships by 2020. By 2013 all 17-year-olds, and by 2015 all 18-year-olds, will be able to participate in training.

Employers will be encouraged to offer work-based training by a more transparent funding system that would guarantee at least £3000 per apprentice, rising to a maximum £15 000 in engineering apprenticeships.

On adult skills, the Learning and Skills Council will facilitate courses to allow learners over 19 to get functional literacy, numeracy and full Level 2 qualifications.

Source

Electrical and Mechanical Contractor