Jack Lopresti MP welcomes growth in apprenticeships under Coalition Government at start of National Apprenticeship Week

Jack has welcomed new figures which show Coalition investment has led to a substantial rise in the number of apprenticeships since the last Labour Government.

Figures released last week show a 72% increase in Filton and Bradley Stoke since 2009, putting the total number at 850 in 2011.

This is welcome news at the start of National Apprenticeship Week which will see nationwide events to raise the profile of apprentices.

The Coalition has recently announced a new scheme of incentives for small employers to take on their first young apprentice. To encourage thousands of small firms that don't currently hire apprentices to take on a young apprentice aged 16 to 24, the Government will offer employers with up to 50 employees an incentive payment of up to £1,500. This will support up to 20,000 new apprenticeships in 2012/13. Details of how to apply will be announced by the Business department in the next few weeks.

Jack said,

"I am delighted that more and more people and employers in our local area have benefited from an apprenticeship thanks to the extra investment by the Government."

"Within weeks of forming a Government the Coalition committed to create 50,000 new apprenticeships and has already exceeded that number."

"Employers benefit from Government support for the costs of training their apprentices and they offer a fantastic opportunity for people to get on the job training that can lead to a fulfilling career."

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