Deadline approaching for Modern Apprenticeships

Aug 5 2010 by Cameron Hay, Paisley Daily Express

TIME is running out for Renfrewshire companies involved in the food and drink industry to secure funding for modern apprenticeships.

The Scottish Government last year agreed to extend funding to all employees starting staff aged 20 and over on new career paths.

But submissions for the modern apprenticeships must be received by Skills Development Scotland before the end of today.

As a result of the funding, apprentice numbers soared from just 25 two years ago to more than 600 last year.

This year, the Scottish Government has pledged to fund even more adult modern apprenticeships – 5,000 across all sectors of industry – and it is hoped that more food and drink companies will come forward before the submission deadline.

The food and drink industry has been targeted for additional funding as it is seen as a key sector of Scotland’s economy and relies largely on the skills and ability of its workforce to achieve future growth and prosperity.

For further information about modern apprenticeships in the food and drink industry, visit the website at www.improve-skills.co.uk.

More details are also available from Skills Development Scotland by sending an e-mail to info@skillsdevelopmentscotland.co.uk