The Learning And Skills Council

The functions and staff of the LSC have now been moved to the Skills Funding Agency, the Young People’s Learning Agency, Local Authorities and Regional Development Agencies.  To contact the Skills Funding Agency call 0845 377 5000 To contact the Young People’s Learning Agency call 0845 377 2000

Add in new section on National Apprenticeship Service with the details below

NAS began in April 2009, and have a target of 1 in 5 young people in apprenticeships by 2020.  From 2013, anyone leaving school has the right to go on to an apprenticeship which will cover the 16 – 64 age range.

The NAS  includes Employer Services who will handle any employer enquiry about apprenticeships, help them source training providers and make an informed choice and Learner Services who deal with colleges, schools and offer advice and guidance to learners.  An Apprenticeship Resource Pack can be downloaded from the website.  A vacancy line for employers is also available free of charge and the vacancies are being promoted to young people through Facebook and Twitter. 

The following web links can be used for more information:

http://www.apprenticeships.org.uk/Employers.aspx  

Employer’s page detailing business benefits, case studies, funding and training and lots more including a useful frequently asked questions section

http://www.apprenticeships.org.uk/Employers/AGE16and17.aspx

16 and 17 year old subsidy employer information sheet

http://www.apprenticeships.org.uk/Types-of-Apprenticeships.aspx  

Info on the different types of Apprenticeships.  For Hospitality and Catering select Retail and Commercial Management and scroll down the page

https://apprenticeshipvacancymatchingservice.lsc.gov.uk/navms/forms/Vacancy/SearchProvider.aspx  

Training Provider search facility by either location or provider name

The NAS always advise employers to identify the skills needs of the business and then identify appropriate members of staff and training schemes.  An employer who wants to know more about apprenticeships can contact the NAS team directly. 

Apprenticeship is employed status from day 1 and apprentices must receive a minimum of £95 per week and full T&Cs and contracts of employment.  Most employers pay more than this and most offer at least minimum wage.  Someone who starts an apprenticeship at 19 will get £95 per week in their first year, but their second year is then at national minimum wage.  No wage subsidies or travel expenses paid.