Alarming decline in engineering apprentices, minimum wage to start
25 Mar 2010
London – The number of adult engineering apprentices has risen 88% between 2008 and 2009, compared to an 8% decrease in young engineering apprentices (16-18) and a 9% drop in engineering apprentices overall (16-25), EngineeringUK has reported.
This rise in apprentices over 25 is thought to be linked to a new funding stream introduced in 2007 for adult apprenticeships, as well increased demand for retraining opportunities following the economic downturn, according to the industry body.
The overall drop in engineering apprenticeships contrasts with a 7% rise in apprenticeships across all subjects. According to the National Apprenticeship Service, the overall increase in apprenticeships is also evidence that employers are recognising the need to up-skill existing staff in preparation for the upturn.
The 9% decrease in engineering, manufacturing and technology apprentices is concerning, particularly when viewed against the 7 % rise overall, according to Paul Jackson, chief executive of EngineeringUK.
“If the UK is to live up to the recent skills white paper and succeed in forging a new class of highly skilled technicians, we must create apprenticeships in strategically important subjects such as engineering and manufacturing,” said Jackson. “We hope to see all political parties address this issue in the forthcoming election campaign.”
Meanwhile, the UK government is to introduce an apprentice minimum wage of £2.50 per hour, in line with the recommendations from the Low Pay Commission (LPC), which includes employers and trade union representatives.
The new rate will apply to those apprentices who are under 19 or those that are aged 19 and over but in the first year of their apprenticeship, accordin to business minister Pat McFadden.
“I’m glad to see the LPC recognising the significant contribution that apprentices make to the economy. I hope this will encourage more people to take advantage of this opportunity and invest in their skills by taking up an apprenticeship,” said McFadden.
LPC chairman David Norgrove added: “We are pleased that the Government has again accepted the Commission’s recommendations. The introduction of an apprentice rate marks an important extension to minimum wage protection across the UK.”
