FSB: Help small firms hire apprentices
Tue 5 Aug 2008 at 4:54 PM
The Federation of Small Business (FSB) has called on the government to provide greater support so its members can hire more apprentices.
It revealed only five per cent of respondents were aware compensation is available for them to give apprentices time off to train.
Education and skills chairman Colin William said exceptions from the National Minimum Wage were not critical. He told the Low Pay Commission trainees should be paid the same as 16-18-year-olds already in work.
"Small businesses place great value on an apprenticeship," he said. "But they are often impeded by lengthy administration and the costs of providing training."
Education regulator Ofsted has called for greater promotion of programme-led apprenticeships as they produce "learners that are better prepared for the workforce".
It said they provide an important option for young people who otherwise may find it difficult to get work.
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