National Apprenticeship Week is an opportunity to celebrate the achievements of apprentices and the positive impact they have on businesses, communities, and the wider economy. With a range of industries offering apprenticeships, there is a wealth of opportunity available for young people and those seeking to change careers. It is a chance for people to gain experience and build their knowledge base, making them more competitive in the job market and increasing their chances of finding fulfilling and rewarding work.
Locally, we have a fantastic range of high-quality apprenticeships across various sectors, providing a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience and develop practical skills while earning a wage. I am really encouraged that there were 840 apprenticeship starts in Bury St Edmunds in 2021/22, which was an increase of 60 from the number of starts in 2020/21. This growth is evidence of the increasing desirability of the programs.
On visits to West Suffolk College and many of our local businesses, I have seen first-hand the benefit of apprenticeship in equipping apprentices with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in their chosen careers. During these visits, I have had the opportunity to hear about apprentices experiences and the skills they are learning in work, and I am always impressed by their passion and enthusiasm for their work, and by the commitment of our local college and businesses in supporting their growth and development.
In speaking to both apprentices and recruiters, I know that apprenticeships also offer a range of benefits for employers, making them an attractive option for companies looking to invest in the development of their workforce. By training in work, employers can benefit from having a highly skilled workforce that meets their specific needs at a lower cost. No matter what area of workplace study people are interested in pursuing, there are current apprenticeship opportunities available locally, from electrical installation and engineering to accounts and business administration, your next opportunity may be out there.
I am committed to promoting apprenticeships and helping to bridge the skills gap in our area and I would like to encourage local businesses and organisations to consider how they can invest in the future of our workforce by offering apprenticeships. I would also like to encourage young people to consider this option and to reach out to local businesses to explore the opportunities available.
