Apprenticeships scheme on target to give boost to young jobseekers

THE Scottish Government has met its target to support 25,000 apprenticeships in the programmer’s first year, the First Minister announced today.

Alex Salmond said he is confident that the Scottish Government will match the record number in each year of this five-year parliamentary term.

He said: “The modern apprenticeship programme provides a superb opportunity to support young people into work with training which meets the needs of our businesses.

“To be able to support these opportunities on such a scale is something of which this Government is incredibly proud.”

Mr Salmond revealed the development in an address to a youth employment summit hosted by Skills Development Scotland in Inverness.

He highlighted a “skills academy” established by Global Energy Group at Nigg, in the Highlands, which is due to take on 290 apprentices in its first year.

“The energy sector gives us the opportunity to lift the country out of the economic downturn and this is exactly what is being presented at Nigg,” he said.

“It was clear from the apprentices I met that they have huge enthusiasm as they embark on a career with endless prospects.”

Youth Employment Minister Angela Constance said: “Today is an opportunity to celebrate a milestone in the development of our future workforce.

“As we move forward, the Government is unwavering in its commitment to providing a training or education opportunity for every single 16 to 19 year old in Scotland not already in work, education or training.”