Funding uncertainty threatens apprenticeships

The EEF pronouncement followed the release of figures by the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills which show 143,400 people completed apprenticeships in the 2008/09 academic year. Nigel Fletcher, education and skills adviser for EEF said: "The significant increase in apprenticeship completions is an encouraging sign, indicating that those taking them are more committed than ever to building their skills. However, the headline growth in new apprentices hides the fact that the number starting in the last quarter is lower than last year. Problems in meeting demand will exist as long as employers face uncertainty over funding levels. With skills so vital to the economy, now is not the time to turn off the tap."