Hope for the industry as uk apprenticeship numbers rise

Recent figures regarding apprenticeships and traineeships from the Department of Education have brought hope to the hairdressing industry. There has been an increase of 15.4% of students starting apprenticeships compared to the same period in 2017/2018. This year saw 132,000 students entering into apprenticeships. Whilst this is good news that the numbers are improving, they are still not as high as before the apprenticeship levy was introduced. In 2016/2017 and 2015/2016 figures hit 155,600/153,100 respectively. Commenting on the latest National Apprenticeship figures, Alan Woods OBE, ceo of Vocational Training Charitable Trust (VTCT), said, "The latest set of data regarding apprenticeship starts is a welcome bit of good news for the sector, and a reminder for businesses of all sizes of the value of apprenticeships. I am particularly pleased that there has been an increase in the number of BAME apprentices and those apprentices with Learning or Disadvantage difficulties at this point compared to last year. Our colleges, independent training providers, Awarding and Assessment Organisations and the Institute for Apprenticeships should take credit for those increases." Alan continued, "However, a drop in take-up cannot be ignored, particularly with Level 2 (intermediate) apprenticeships, and this is clearly down to the lack of clarity regarding the implementation of apprenticeship reform. British businesses – from all sectors – need clear guidance on how the continuing policy and funding changes to the apprenticeship landscape will be implemented sustainably, and the Government must ensure that the benefits of apprenticeships are promoted to all learners, regardless of age, whilst also backing businesses in giving the opportunity for learners to undertake intermediate (L2) apprenticeships, as they start their careers."