Finance worries cause NVQ training numbers to fall
1 min read
For manufacturers, a lack of financial support for training youngsters to National/Scottish Vocational Qualification (N/SVQ) level appears to be driving down learner numbers. The 14,881 N/SVQ registrations in the second quarter of the year (1 April – 30 June) was 13% down compared to the same period last year
New figures released by the Semta, the sector skills council for science, engineering and manufacturing technologies, show that while the long-term trend shows continued growth in learner numbers, these latest figures represent a reduction on the record registrations previously achieved and Semta suggests they may reflect the perceived lack of financial support for employers looking to train their workforce.
However, the new data also reveals that N/SVQs Level 3 and Level 4 certifications have risen by 11% and 14% respectively, underlining employers' focus on higher level skills for future growth and the importance of apprenticeships in developing these skills.
But despite the perceived lack of funding, Semta says there is still money on offer to businesses wanting to take on apprentices, typically ensuring that training costs are funded for apprentices aged between 16-18 and partially funded for those aged 19 or over.
Chief executive Philip Whiteman (pictured) said: "300,000 of the current technical workforce is below world class standards. So it's vital that we support the sector to upskill, recruit apprentices, improve the work readiness of graduates and encourage young people to develop STEM skills."
