As National Apprenticeship Week (8-14 February 2021) starts with a theme of ‘Build the Future’, figures from the Department for Education show a steep drop in the number of places on motor industry apprenticeship schemes,
“It is hugely disappointing, albeit not very surprising, that automotive was one of the worst hit sectors for apprentice recruitment in 2020″ said IMI Chief Executive Steve Nash.
Nash added that that the sector as a whole has seen a 63 percent year-on-year drop in apprenticeship scheme places in 2020, with vehicle maintenance and repair apprenticeship starts plummeting by 95 percent in the same period.
2020: IMI WARNING OVER EV TECH SHORTAGE
While coronavirus and the impact it has had on our trade is largely responsible for the fall, it is not the only reason, according to Nash.
2020: IMI RESPONDS TO UNION’S EV CRITICISMS
“What particularly concerns us at the IMI is that there has been a significant drop in automotive firms accessing Apprentice Levy funds, yet this would provide vital support when business finances are under pressure”, he said. “We would urge any employer unsure about what funding they can access to contact our support team who can provide guidance and support.”
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