Apprenticeship Blueprint Launched

The Department for Employment and Learning has outlined its proposed blueprint for the future of apprenticeship training in Northern Ireland.

Employment and Learning Minister Dr Stephen Farry today told the Assembly his Department's Review of Apprenticeships Interim report contained 32 proposals to be reviewed during a 12-week consultation.

Key proposals contained within the consultation include:

• An apprenticeship will commence at professional and technical level 3 (equivalent to A Level) or higher and will last for a minimum duration of two years
• An apprenticeship will involve a breadth of training beyond the specific needs of a particular job through on and off the job training.
• A range of incentives will be considered to support employers, particularly SMEs and micro businesses, to increase participation
• An apprenticeship will be designed to enable individuals to progress into higher professional or technical training
• Applications for apprenticeship places will be supported via a UCAS style portal
• Apprenticeships will be expanded to include professional and technical occupations within the public sector

Minister Farry said: "This review of apprenticeships has the potential to radically reform and improve the training and skills landscape in Northern Ireland for learners and employers, and is a top priority for my Department.

"Most fundamental of all the proposals is the key role employers will play in the future apprenticeship model. They will be placed in the driving seat to inform future demand and content in partnership with other important stakeholders.

"I call on employers, educational institutions, learners and key stakeholders to provide their feedback during this consultation period. Feedback received through this process will be used to inform our final policy for apprenticeships, which will be published in early summer of 2014."

(IT/CD)