STORY
A flagship Government apprenticeship programme has recorded 160 starts during its first eight months, according to figures reported as ministers seek to reduce youth unemployment. The Government has set a target of creating 30,000 foundation apprenticeships by the end of the current Parliament.
Foundation apprenticeships are intended to provide young people with entry level training and a route into longer apprenticeships or employment. The figures come as almost one million people aged between 16 and 24 are reported to be outside education, employment or training.
Overall apprenticeship starts in England have increased by approximately 9% to around 308,000, although most of the increase has been among people aged over 25. The Department for Work and Pensions said further investment and incentives were planned, while a Fabian Society report called for regional apprenticeship funds and reforms allowing employers to use levy funding towards wages.