The success of the Programme-Led Apprenticeships programme was outlined this week by Sir Reg Empey, Minister for Employment and Learning.

Speaking to the Assembly, Sir Reg disclosed that over 2,700 school leavers have enrolled for the training since the inception of Programme-Led Apprenticeships in September.

Sir Reg said: "This is an important measure during recession, when employment for school leavers is on the decline. Staying on at school or going to a Further Education college is just not an option for many young people.

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"We need a training solution that will prepare them for employment when the upturn comes and will plug the skills gap that will most certainly appear if we don’t continue to train at this important time," he said.

The Programme-Led Apprenticeship programme follows the same Level II framework and qualifications used for Employer-Led apprenticeship, where the apprentices are in employment.

Programme-Led apprentices spend more time with the training organisation, concentrating on learning practical skills in a simulated work environment but they also have the opportunity for a work placement.

The Minister also commented: "It is important to note that this is not a second tier or lower class of apprenticeship. The young school leavers will train to the same standard, following exactly the same framework as employed apprentices.

"This means that, should they get employment at any stage during their training, then they will seamlessly transfer to the other programme. This is a big advantage," he said.

(BMcC/KMcA)