MP discovers 21st century apprenticeship

Paul Rowen MP with Rochdale Apprentices during his visit to ROK

Paul Rowen MP took time out of his busy Westminster schedule to discover what it means to be a 21st century apprentice. The MP for Rochdale went to meet apprentices from Rochdale as part the celebrations during National Apprenticeship Week 2010.

Members of Parliament from across England shadowed apprentices in their constituencies to gain a better understanding of how Apprenticeships work. The MPs learned about the vital role apprentices play in today’s society, and about the benefits they can bring to businesses.

Mr Rowen MP, who visited ROK, said: It was great to go along and see first hand the fantastic work that is being carried out by local apprentices.

"Everyone deserves a chance to develop the skills and knowledge that will give them the best opportunities in life.

"Many bright young people in Rochdale are potentially being put off going to University by the thought of being saddled with 10k in tuition fee debt.

"It’s important, especially during the economic climate, that we improve access to apprenticeships so that everyone can get the best from their education.”

Sue Price, Regional Director for the National Apprenticeship Service said: “Apprenticeships are recognised across the region as a means of providing employers with a highly skilled workforce which can help their business to succeed.

“The programme is increasingly being acknowledged by employers as a beacon of training excellence, and apprentices are really proving their worth within a company, with businesses reporting that after recruiting an apprentice productivity has been increased and staff moral has been boosted.

“Apprenticeship Week celebrates the achievements of apprentices working in a wide range of sectors, as well as providing an opportunity to highlight and promote the business benefits of the Apprenticeship programme.

“By choosing to ‘go back to the floor’ Paul Rowen will have been able to gain first hand experience of life as an apprentice and witness for himself/herself the difference that apprentices are making to businesses everyday.”