Status: Final

Graham Hoyle OBE, ALP chief executive, said:

“It is very encouraging that in having to take some tough decisions on the budget deficit, the coalition government has today taken steps to tackle the dangers of a lost generation of young people.  Finding £150 million from the savings to reinvest in 50,000 new apprenticeship places is particularly welcome because the high quality apprenticeship programme is now so highly valued by both employers and young people.  Learning providers, including those from the Third Sector, will also be pleased that funding for 16-19 year olds’ training will be protected for the time being because the NEET issue has become far more serious over the past twelve months.

“With economic conditions still uncertain, the immediate challenge will be to find enough small and medium sized businesses able to offer the extra apprenticeship places.  This is certainly achievable but training providers with their day-to-day engagement with local employers will be key to making this happen on the ground and we look forward to working with the government on taking the aim forward.”