Budget 2021 Highlights Commitment to Growing Apprenticeships 

Following the recent Budget statement, Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber Training (CWCT) is pleased to hear the Government voice their continued commitment to expanding apprenticeships. Recognising the importance of skills to support economic growth, the reference to the need to invest in lifelong learning for adults was announced, which is particularly important when 80% of the 2030 workforce is already at work so the re-skilling and up-skilling of adults will be key as technologies develop and new jobs emerge.

Mention was also made of the importance of numeracy skills to peoples’ earnings potential and the announcement of support for numeracy skills development, through a new Multiply programme, was a strong recognition of how vital these skills are in the workplace.

Commenting on the Budget in relation to skills, Sally Lucas, Executive Director at CWCT said: “With the acute skills shortage across the UK and the major challenges businesses face in recruiting the right people, it was pleasing to hear the government recognise the need to grow apprenticeships, support high-quality T-levels for the next generation of the workforce, as well as focus on lifelong learning opportunities for adults.

“We need to ensure there are seamless entry and progression pathways for employers and individuals to take advantage of the support the government is giving to skills. More can always be done and it would be great to see the government commit to extending the current financial incentives for employers who create apprenticeship jobs, which are due to end in January 2022. These have proven to be a welcome boost to stimulate employers into action and increase the take-up of apprenticeships. The challenge now is to ensure that young people, in particular, have the awareness and confidence to take their first steps into the world of work.”

 “At Chamber Training we personalise apprenticeships, designing content around the needs of the business and the apprentice. This can make all the difference to the impact apprenticeships have in the workplace.”

To discuss how Chamber Training’s apprenticeships and other training courses could benefit your business, address the skills gaps and help your business to grow, contact Chamber Training’s Business Development Team on 024 7623 1122 or enquiries@cw-chambertraining.co.uk