Apprenticeship Levy “fundamental concern” for Scotland

Scottish Employability Minister Jamie Hepburn has criticised the UK government’s Apprenticeship Levy saying that it undermines its “uniquely Scottish” approach to modern apprentices.

The Scottish government will begin a consultation on 13 July to discuss how the Apprenticeship Levy and improve productivity and spur economic growth.

The consultation will examine the commitment to creating 30,000 high quality modern apprenticeship starts by 2020 and the possibility of expanding upon if there is demand from industry.

It is envisaged that more graduate level apprenticeships will be developed, whilst the possibility of creating an employer fund for greater workforce development will also be discussed.

Support for those outside the labour market to ready them as the skilled workers that industry is crying out for.

Mr Hepburn described the Apprenticeship Levy as a “fundamental concern” for the Scottish government and criticised the UK government for introducing the levy without first discussing the issue with Scotland, even though the apprenticeship levy being devolved to the Scottish Parliament.

He said: “We believe that this Levy undermines our uniquely Scottish approach to apprenticeships and imposes an unnecessary financial burden on employers. However we are determined to work with industry to ensure that opportunities to enhance workforce skills and productivity sit at the heart of our response to the introduction of the Levy.”

John F McClelland, Chair of Skills Development Scotland and Chair of the newly formed Scottish Apprenticeship Advisory Board, said: “Apprenticeships are crucial to the Scottish economy and in order to go from strength to strength then employers need to be consulted and have their voices heard.

“The Board has been established to provide this employer leadership and contribution to the development of apprenticeships in Scotland, ensuring they are aligned with industry and economic need, Fair Work and job opportunities.

“Led by employers and representatives from industry bodies across a range of sectors, the Board will contribute to the consultation process and also actively encourage others with a shared interest in apprenticeships to participate.”

 

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