AELP reaction to the Conservative manifesto

 On Apprenticeships:

“It is great to see the drive to expand the apprenticeship programme but we have cautioned against the chasing of substantial volume targets if it puts at risk the quality of the programme.  A large expansion of apprenticeships will require a similarly increased investment by the government and employers.  It will also need a simplification of the system for funding and controlling the system to allow employers the flexibility to deliver programmes that meet their needs.”

On the Youth Allowance

“Getting young people the right job with training must be the objective, so taking part for example in community projects must be part of a clear plan to get them the work they need.  Training providers involved in welfare to work programmes should be involved in developing these proposals so that the range of programmes developed by several government departments is integrated into a responsive and effective support system.”

On English devolution

“Core employability schemes such as Traineeships, the Work Programme and Apprenticeships must all be part of a coherent national strategy.  For AELP members, it is not about national or regional but an integrated approach that focuses on the impact of delivery.”