Industry Apprentice Council meets with UK Skills Minister

The committee of 13 industry apprentices, aged between 18 and 24, attended the All Party Parliamentary Apprenticeships Group at the House of Commons to ask Hancock how the government plans to ensure quality and promote the vocational pathway as an equal opportunity to higher education.

The IAC quizzed Hancock about the lack of careers advice and gave its views on the Richards Review of Apprenticeships.

The council also put forward its ideas on an advertising campaign to raise awareness among parents, teachers and young people and highlight the great experiences available to apprentices as part of the vocational route.

The IAC was launched for apprentices to have their say on national policy and strategy, take action on apprenticeship promotion and feedback directly to government ministers. Gathering regularly to discuss the key issues affecting apprenticeships, members include apprentices from companies including Airbus, BAE Systems, MBDA and National Grid.

The IAC welcomes input from apprentices, learners and the wider community. Questions or comments can be made through the group’s Facebook page.