Angela Smith has welcomed the publication of figures that show a record number of people completed apprenticeships in 2008-09.

In Essex, 3,200 people completed apprenticeships, an increase of 33% from 2007-08. Thurrock registered a 50% increase from 200 to 300 people in the same period. Across the wider Eastern region, 12,400 people completed apprenticeships – an increase of 24%.The overall national success rate was 70.9%, smashing the government’s target of 50%.

Angela said, “this is great news. Apprenticeships are now rightly regarded as an excellent way to build people’s skills and help them get into employment. I applaud all of those who have successfully completed one, and hope that people continue to take up the offer of an apprenticeship.

I am proud that the government has put apprenticeships at centre stage of our policy on economic growth, and I am supporting measures in Parliament that will guarantee an apprenticeship, training or a job for all 18-24 year olds who are out of work for over six months.

I know from following the progress of aeronautical engineering apprentices at Prospects College from start to finish how valuable these can be.”

Kevin Brennan MP, Apprenticeships Minister said, “I’d like to congratulate all of the people in the East of England who have completed an apprenticeship and all the businesses who continue to offer apprenticeships, even in difficult economic times.”

Angela is pictured at Prospects College. Photo credit: Ron Poulter

Jan 2010