AELP responds to Conservative Party announcement on apprenticeship funding

AELP have today issued the following statement in response to Conservative Party plans to increase apprenticeship funding by £900m.

Ben Rowland, AELP Chief Executive, said:

"On top of the existing “guarantee” to meet demand amongst small and medium sized employers for apprenticeships, announced by government in March, the Conservatives promise for an extra £900m leading to 100,000 more apprenticeships is very welcome. This sets a challenge to the other political parties to match this additional funding."

“Today's announcement would help meet demand for apprenticeships. They require the offer of a real job, so we still need to stimulate more demand among employers – especially SMEs. This requires proper incentives and more flexibility over the duration of apprenticeships and their content. Whichever party finds itself in government there will need to be a commitment to encouraging more employers offering apprenticeship opportunities. After all, if individual employers don’t step up, we will be failing the 900,000 young people not in employment, education or training"

The Association of Employment and Learning Providers (AELP) is a national membership body, proudly representing its many member organisations. AELP members support thousands of businesses and millions of learners in England by delivering a wide range of training, vocational learning, and employability programmes.

For further information or interviews please contact Matt Strong, Communications Manager, AELP, on 07920 161685 or [email protected]