Marking the start of Apprenticeship Week, Pontefract and Castleford MP Yvette Cooper sets local apprenticeship challenge.

The MP backed government investment to create extra apprenticeships. She is now calling on local business, charities and voluntary organisations across the district to take on more apprenticeships to help local young people into work.

Yvette is encouraging all local businesses to take up the new government funded Apprentice Grant for Employers (AGE) scheme, which offers a £2,500 grant for each 16 or 17-year-old apprentice taken on.

Apprenticeship Week runs from 1 – 5th February. It celebrates the talents and skills of Apprentices and recognises the value of Apprenticeships.

Research highlights many benefits for employers who invest in Apprenticeship training, including increased productivity and quality of work, a more innovative workforce, reduced staff turnover and a better fit between employee skills and company requirements.

Yvette said:

“Apprenticeships are a great way for young people to earn a wage and gain practical skills that employers need. When I’ve met local apprentices, they tell me that on the job training is really important and a good start to their working lives. 

“That’s why I want to see more apprenticeships around here. WDH, the Council and some businesses are already offering young people this route into work. As part of Apprenticeship Week, I believe many more local organisations should pledge their support too.”