Introduction
A unique combination of learning and work, Apprenticeships have a strong role to play in fulfilling the potential of young people. In 2006, Pathfinders were set up in Hertfordshire, Manchester and South Tyneside as part of wider efforts to refresh young people’s routes into skilled work. This resource draws on that experience and is about supporting local authorities, as they join with businesses and communities, to develop Apprenticeships in their role of planning, commissioning and providing opportunities.
Our approach takes you from setting an ambition, through to implementation. It covers promising practice on issues ranging from boosting private sector Apprenticeship places, to getting the data analyses needed to inform important decisions. It is key reading for staff with responsibility for 14–19 education, youth employment, local economic development and HR.
Click on image to enlarge.
Purpose of the resource
The 2006 Leitch Review, Prosperity for all in the global economy: world class skills, began a drive to reinvigorate Apprenticeships. The three Apprenticeship Pathfinders in Hertfordshire, Manchester and South Tyneside have been at the forefront of councils’ efforts to mainstream Apprenticeships as a learning route and so support many more young people into accessing them. Overall the Pathfinders did well in increasing Apprenticeship starts in 2009/10. They have broken new ground, increasing participation and achieving far greater awareness among young people, teachers and employers on the role and benefits of Apprenticeships.
This resource is underpinned by their experiences. Its aim is to provide councils with advice on how to develop and implement strategies to boost Apprenticeship opportunities in tough economic times, drawing on the expertise of the partners to the project: the Young Foundation, the London School of Economics, and Local Government Improvement and Development. It has been funded and supported by the National Apprenticeship Service (NAS).
Structure of the resource
This resource is structured around local authorities’ journey in developing the local Apprenticeship offer for young people aged 16–18. You can start the journey at any point, depending on the areas you need to focus on.
For information on each stage of the journey, click on either the diagram above or the sections listed here:
For further details on the history of the Pathfinders, view our case studies.
For definitions view our Glossary.
Frequent questions
Last Updated: 04/10/2010