EEF comment on new funding for traineeship schemes

Commenting on the new funding for traineeship schemes announced by Skills Minister Matthew Hancock, Steve Radley, Director of Policy at EEF, the manufacturers’ organisation, said: “Investing an additional £20m into the Traineeship programme will mean more young people have a better chance of stepping onto the career ladder, whether this is into an apprenticeship or into employment.

"Traineeships have already been positively adopted in industries in manufacturing.

“However, if government wants more employers to get on board, it should extend the traineeship model to a maximum of 12 months.

"This will enable learners to really grasp the skills and experience that employers demand, whilst having the opportunity to take relevant vocational qualifications which employers value.”