High Flying Apprenticeships 'Take Off'

There are opportunities for apprenticeships in engineering that are for real 'high-flyers'

Business Secretary Vince Cable visited the Farnborough International Airshow and called on young people to pursue a career in aerospace.

Vince Cable made the opening speech of the show at the Sustainable Aerospace Conference where he committed to giving the industry the skills and research base they need to compete internationally.

There is currently unmet employer demand for apprenticeships at advanced and higher level, particularly in sectors such as engineering.

The Government is working to expand apprenticeships at Level 3 and above and is improving progression routes from foundation level and into higher levels and professional skills.

As part of this commitment Vince Cable has agreed to chair regular meetings with aerospace business leaders to focus on major strategic issues facing the aerospace sector.

The Business Secretary said: "This government working together with industry will support the sector by delivering the right skills where they are needed most.

"We will encourage a new generation of talent by investing in high level apprenticeships and sustaining a high-performing research environment."

Minister of State for Universities and Science, David Willetts, will also be visiting the air show on Wednesday to promote the UK space industry.

(BMcC/GK)