Newly announced changes to requirements for UK apprenticeship schemes will encourage more people to take up vocational training across the logistics sector, according to a leading industry group.
The rule changes announced by Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson yesterday mean that businesses employing apprentices will now be able to decide whether a level 2 English and maths qualification is needed for adult learners over the age of 19 to pass their course.
It’s expected to enable up to 10,000 more apprentices to qualify per year by allowing them to focus more on their paid work.
Logistics UK’s head of skills policy Bethany Windsor welcomed the rule change.
“For too long, logistics businesses have been hampered in taking on apprentices by overly long practical periods or the insistence on the achievement of English or Maths qualifications, which were not always relevant to the vacancies available or may have been superseded by other qualifications,” she said.
“Apprenticeships provide a wonderful opportunity for new recruits to enter the sector and today’s changes to the system will make it easier and more appealing for them to do so, which will help logistics businesses do their part in driving growth across the economy.”
In addition, the minimum length of an apprenticeship will be reduced from 12 to eight months, which will make them a more appealing opportunity for introduction into the logistics sector and increase completion levels.
“Apprenticeships are a vital route into our sector for many people,” continued Windsor, “and we have been pressing government for some time to remove as many barriers to entry and completion as possible.”
She added that the announcement “will open the world of logistics qualifications to even more people”.
“Logistics has so many opportunities for new recruits and those looking to up- or re-skill, but it is vital that we provide as seamless a process as possible.”
