Representatives from around 40 companies across the region heard how there has never been a better time for businesses to take on Apprentices. TheBusinessDesk.com teamed up with the National Apprenticeship Service for a seminar during National Apprenticeship Week in Manchester.
One of a number of events to be held in the region this week, the seminar at the Park Inn heard from entrepreneur Jennie Johnson, apprentice Meg Heaton, Winstanley College principal Jo Bailey as well as Sue Price, divisional area director North at NAS.
Mrs Price said while other departmental budgets were under pressure, the Department of Business has increased its support for Apprenticeships to £3.4bn this year. She said firms hiring 16 to 24 year-olds can receive a new £1,500 Government grant. "In the North West this year nearly 80,000 apprentices will be taken on in 280 different apprenticeships. And 72% of businesses reported seeing increased productivity after taking on an apprentice," she said. "Apprenticeships are providing real jobs, real qualifications and a real future for young people. We want to engage with more employers so we can give more young people a first chance to step on to the ladder."
She said the National Audit Office had endorsed the impact of Apprenticeships by finding that for every £1 spent it generates £18 for the economy.
Source: The Business Desk
