John Hayes (South Holland & The Deepings, Conservative)

Well, there are one or two people in the deep recesses and far corners of the House who have not recognised that, but we continue to make our case with force so that even they will ultimately appreciate that the Opposition intend— when elevated to government, should the people of Britain grant us that great honour—to create 100,000 new apprenticeships. That would be a massive boost to the apprenticeship programme.

However, I must not test the Committee’s patience too much, and I will return to my main theme. In order to achieve the objective of the growth in the apprenticeship programme, it is critically important that we provide the right kind of advice and guidance. That does not apply just to young people, about whom I shall say a few more words in a moment, but to all those who might consider an apprenticeship. It is too easy to categorise apprenticeships around school leavers. However, particularly in the current economic circumstances, adult apprenticeships are a vital means by which people can reskill, upskill, gain new employment, fulfil their potential and gain new opportunities. We need good advice not only for young people, but for all who consider an apprenticeship as a path to an occupation.

The failings of careers advice have provoked a great deal of criticism, particularly concerning the range of opportunities in vocational training and qualifications. Schools too often overlook those pathways in their effort, albeit well intentioned, to ensure that students progress along more traditional academic routes.

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