Local MPs back '100 in 100 Apprenticeships' Campaign

York MPs Hugh Bayley and Julian Sturdy visited York College to meet with apprentice hairdressers. They were supporting the launch of the York Apprenticeship Challenge, to generate commitments from employers to offer at least 100 new apprenticeship places within 100 days. This challenge has been successfully introduced in other areas by the National Apprenticeship Service (NAS) and it is hoped that York will have similar success with its challenge.

Hugh Bayley MP says: “Apprenticeships are a great way to get on in life for young people and adults who want on the job training. Employers need staff with practical, on the job, experience and York College is helping to provide that. They realise there are limits to what can be learnt in the classroom and apprenticeships give employers the best of both worlds – technical and business skills learnt in college together with experience of work. I hope the aim of the challenge is achieved and 100 businesses in York take on an apprentice.”

Julian Sturdy MP says: “It is absolutely right that we highlight and celebrate the 100 in 100 Apprenticeships Challenge in York. Often such apprenticeships can stimulate activity in the jobs market and contribute to local economic growth. The flexible nature of apprenticeships provides individuals with a real practical taste of different industries and jobs, equipping them with increased experiences, skills and confidence. In difficult economic times, we should all be encouraged by the 100 in 100 initiative, and I am sure that our great City’s businesses will rise to the challenge and meet this target.”

Louise Lawrence-Crockford, Assistant Principal for Employer Engagement at York College comments: “The 100 in 100 challenge is a great way to raise the profile of Apprenticeships and I am sure that York businesses will take up the challenge.”