SCC Supports #ScotAppWeek20
Published in the Courier.
The first week in March is Scottish Apprenticeship Week. Throughout the week the Scottish Chamber Network will join apprentices, businesses, industry, schools, colleges, universities, councils and training providers in organising and participating in activities and events across the country celebrating the role we all play in supporting apprenticeships and work-based learning. This year the week will highlight the benefits of a diverse workforce through the lens of apprenticeships. Network members will be able to recognise and celebrate the business benefits of diversity and the role apprenticeships play in providing a platform for creating an inclusive workforce.
The system of apprenticeships here is different from that in England. We have seen employer demand for Foundation, Modern and Graduate Apprenticeships continue to grow in Scotland since the Apprenticeship Levy was introduced in 2017. Focus has been placed on apprenticeships that are driven by employer demand. This is due at least in part to the contribution of the Scottish Apprenticeship Advisory Board, of which SCC is a member, which continues to provide the employer voice.
SCC network members increasingly recognise the vital role apprenticeships can play in developing the diverse and resilient future workforce needed to enhance business performance and, ultimately, improve on current productivity levels. In uncertain times, the benefits of building your own future talent pipeline and addressing skills shortages by taking advantage of the 100+ Foundation, Modern and Graduate Apprenticeship frameworks on offer across Scotland is rightly celebrated and encouraged during this week. #ScotAppWeek20
