Government invests in engineering apprenticeships

The funding will be allocated to around 250 employers to support growth in sectors including construction and advanced engineering. "Investing in skills is central to our drive to boost business and productivity and make the UK more competitive," said Business Secretary Vince Cable. "By radically expanding the number of degree level apprenticeships for young people, we will put practical learning on a level footing with academic study. This is an essential step that will help rebalance our economy and build a society in which opportunity and reward are fairly and productively distributed." The funding announced today is part of a £25m fund for Higher Apprenticeships announced in July. Nineteen partnerships comprising employers and training providers will receive a total of £17m, following a competitive bidding process. A further £1.7m has also been invested in two new 'Trailblazer' projects in information technology and science, engineering and manufacturing, delivering 6,000 higher apprenticeships.