'Economically Unimportant' Apprenticeships Struck Off Funding List

Thousands of adult apprentices will be denied funding for their training if it does not fall into areas defined as economically important.

The new Department for Employment and Learning (DEL) rule will affect apprenticeship applicants from the end of August.

DEL said the move came after a review of the skills needed by the Northern Irish economy, and was an attempt to focus on school-leavers.

Over-25s wanting to start an adult apprenticeship will only have their day release courses paid for if they are working in areas like engineering, IT, advanced manufacturing, financial services, the creative industries or the manufacture of food and drink.

Anyone who is already on an adult apprenticeship will be funded until they finish.

The new arrangements rule out apprenticeships and nursing homes, the BBC has pointed out, where many women return to the workplace.

Ronan Heenan of the People First training company said the news came as a shock, and the cuts will have an impact on his business.

He said: "We are a bit perplexed at the list of jobs which the department considers economically important. We feel there are jobs left off that list which should be included."

A Department spokeswoman said research had taken into account the findings on international research into best practice.

She said: "Whilst adult apprenticeships will remain key in helping people to gain skills in the workplace, they are not the only route to acquiring skills. The research shows more flexible provision is required for some jobs which can be met through single qualifications such as Essential Skills or targeted vocational courses. These specific needs will continue to be met though the Department's programmes and services.”

(NE)