MP, COUNCIL, NAS & STOCKPORT EXPRESS TAKE ON THE STOCKPORT APPRENTICESHIP CHALLENGE
Andrew Stunell MP, Stockport Council, National Apprenticeship Service and Stockport Express have joined forces to take on the challenge of securing 100 Stockport apprentices in 100 days.
The joint campaign was launched on Friday at Aldi in Romiley, who have committed to take on apprentices within the 100 days.
Although Stockport's JSA claimant rate continues to decrease month by month, and is below the North West average, getting more young people into employment is a priority for the Borough. Apprenticeships are a powerful and vital tool in achieving this.
Commenting, Andrew said -
"I'm delighted that the Council, NAS and Stockport Express have agreed to work with me to boost apprenticeships in Stockport, and that we were able to set it off to a flying start at Aldi."
"My challenge to the town's businesses is to offer a hundred places in a hundred days. I'm writing to them all and letting them know of all the help and support they'll get if they do. Firms like Aldi have taken up the challenge enthusiastically, and that means more doors opening for young people. Local colleges are ready to help provide training, and there are cash incentives from the Government and the Council for employers who sign up a new apprentice. Now let's get things moving."
Attendees included Sir Andrew Stunell MP, Cllr Shan Alexander, Executive Member for Lifelong Learning and Achievement at Stockport Council, John Myers from the National Apprenticeship Service, James Hutcheson from Aldi, Todd Fitzgerald of Stockport Express, Pete Lamb from the Dodd Group, Wayne Jones from MAN PrimeServ Diesel, Danny Pearson from Aquinas College, Karl Colyer from Stockport Homes, and Rachel Jones from Pure Innovations.
Stockport is currently the 3rd best Borough in the North West for apprenticeships, this ambitious campaign wants to see Stockport leading the way for the region.
2011/12 saw over 3,000 apprenticeship start ups in Stockport. An increase of nearly 1500 compared to when Labour were in Government.
For more information about apprenticeships, contact the Council's 14-19 helpline on 0161 474 2350 or email apprenticeships@stockport.gov.uk