Newcastle-under-Lyme College (NULC) has reported a record increase in the number of people taking up an apprenticeship.
A total of 462 people started an apprenticeship in 2010/11, up 82 per cent on the previous year.
The College’s figures are higher than the 62 per cent increase in apprenticeship starts across North Staffordshire and South Cheshire, according to figures released last month by the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills (BIS).
Vicky Boulton-Clarke, Head of Employer Training at NULC said: “These figures demonstrate that Newcastle-under-Lyme College and the businesses we work with are committed to providing training opportunities to contribute to the economic regeneration of North Staffordshire.
She continued: “This year we have also seen a big increase in the number of 16 to 18 year olds taking up an apprenticeship, which goes to show that apprenticeships are becoming a more popular choice for youngsters who want a route into highly skilled jobs without the expense of university.”
NULC works closely with more than 400 local employers to provide apprenticeships in areas including Accounting, Construction, Childcare, Engineering, Hairdressing, Health and Social Care, Retail and IT. This year the College also launched a partnership with Newcastle-based training provider Martec to offer Motor Vehicle apprenticeships.
However there is a need for more employers to provide opportunities to apprentices. Ms Boulton-Clarke added: “Most employers believe that taking on an apprentice is a sound long-term business investment. Apprenticeships play a key role in developing a skilled workforce for the future and supporting the region’s future economy.
“I’d urge any businesses who are interested in recruiting an apprentice or who want to train an existing employee through the Apprenticeship scheme to get in touch with the College’s apprenticeships team.”
Anyone interested in starting an apprenticeship is being urged to come along to the College’s Open Event on Wednesday 16 November from 5.30pm – 8.00pm where staff from the College’s Apprenticeship team and Martec will be on hand to give advice and guidance. People are being urged to pre-register their attendance at the Open Event by visiting www.nulc.ac.uk/events.
