A weeklong campaign highlighting support for apprenticeships has been backed by Wrexham Assembly Member Lesley Griffiths.
National Apprentice Week (3-7 March 2014) is an opportunity to celebrate the value of apprenticeships and the positive impact they have on individuals, businesses and the wider economy.
The week aims to engage with employers over the advantages of employing and supporting apprentices in their workplace. Many apprentices go on to achieve great things for their employers, with over 80% of Welsh businesses believing their presence makes the workplace more productive.
In addition to highlighting the benefits they bring to a business, National Apprentice Week hopes to raise the profile of apprenticeships amongst the broader public and demonstrate the wide range of apprenticeships available in many different sectors across Wales.
Official figures suggest Welsh apprenticeships numbers are at a record high. Provisional data for 2012-13 show over 25,500 Welsh people began their apprenticeships, a rise of more than 45% on the previous year.
The Welsh Government is keen for this trend to continue and as a result have allocated an additional investment of £40m into the Welsh Apprenticeships programme.
Lesley Griffiths AM commented:
“National Apprentice Week is the ideal opportunity to celebrate the achievements of young people and encourage more individuals and businesses across Wales to gain from the many benefits high-quality apprenticeships offer.”
“Despite significant cuts to the Welsh budget by the Tory-led UK Government, I am delighted the Welsh Labour Government remains committed to supporting apprentices and businesses in Wales.”
“For further information visit www.wales.gov.uk/apprenticeships or call the Business Skills Hotline on 0845 60 661 60.”
