Apprenticeships Up 38%!

The latest provisional data* on Apprenticeships (for 2012/13) reveals uptake has increased by 38% across Bedford Borough - while the wider picture shows performance across England down 1%.

The majority of growth is seen within the 19-24 year olds bracket, which shows an increase of 43%. The data also shows that the most growth was revealed in 'Advanced Level Apprenticeships' which is up 42% on the previous year.

Progress looks set to continue as Mayor Dave Hodgson and Bedford Borough Council have now launched a new Network of Apprenticeship Ambassadors. This group will liaise with schools, their own business networks and The Jobs Hub, to help champion Apprenticeships locally.

Lib Dem Mayor of Bedford Borough, Dave Hodgson, said: "These results represent life-changing outcomes for individuals. We are passionate about boosting apprenticeship opportunities locally, and are delighted by the progress that has been made. The Council, the National Apprenticeship Service (NAS), businesses and training providers are working together to continue to create even more new apprenticeship opportunities for local people."

The Ambassador Network currently spans across engineering, electronics, accountancy, legal, hair & beauty, administration and the drinks industry.

For further information on Apprenticeships, or how to become an Apprenticeship Ambassador, contact Lindsay Mitton, at Bedford Borough Council, on 01234 276918, alternatively, email Lindsay at lindsay.mitton@bedford.gov.uk