REC response to apprenticeship shake-up

Commenting on the government announcements on skills reforms, the Recruitment and Employment Confederation (REC) Chief Executive Neil Carberry said:

“A greater targeting of funds on younger people is essential to protect their pathways into work, and offers greater stability and clarity in apprenticeship policy. 

“Yet the changes announced today do not progress us on the real challenge that has driven down apprenticeship opportunities for young workers which is the poor design of the apprenticeship levy. Fixing the levy with real progress on a new Growth and Skills levy is a big task but offers a big reward for people and employers. Firms are increasingly frustrated by the lack of progress on this.  A greater embrace of shorter, modular courses and collaboration with employers is the way to maximise the talent in this country, and is essential for industries from healthcare to construction.”