Last week marked Scottish Apprenticeship Week 2019. With this year’s “Skills for the Future” theme, the Scottish Government celebrated the occasion with several announcements recognising the importance of investing in our workforce.
As part of the new Apprentice Network, pupils in every high school across Scotland will benefit from a new national network of apprentices, helping to inspire future generations to benefit from apprenticeship opportunities. The network is open to current and former apprentices who want to encourage young people to follow in their footsteps, with every school in Scotland to be linked with an ambassador.
Launching the network last Monday, First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said:
“We know that work-based learning delivers for individuals, employers, and the Scottish economy. Through the network, apprentices are going to have the chance to inspire young people to follow their example and become the apprentices of tomorrow. Their success stories are the best way to show pupils that work-based learning offers fantastic career opportunities.”
In addition, it was announced that more than 29,000 people will benefit from Modern Apprenticeship opportunities next year in a continued effort to support youth employment – putting Scotland on course to reach a longstanding commitment to 30,000 new apprenticeship starts each year by 2020.
Local SNP MSP Tom Arthur marked the occasion with a visit to Muirgroup Interiors in Barrhead, where he met with local apprentices.
Commenting after the visit, he said:
“I was delighted to visit Muirgroup Interiors today, a long-established Barrhead business with a strong record of supporting young people into work.
“I am glad to have had the opportunity to meet with young apprentices and see the excellent work they’re doing first-hand; work that will undoubtedly set them in good stead for a bright future.
“Apprenticeships are a fantastic way for employers to invest in their workforce and provide the economy with valuable skills, and I look forward to continuing to support local businesses in Barrhead and across Renfrewshire South.”