Toby Perkins responds to Sutton Trust report on impact of Covid-19 on apprenticeships

Toby Perkins MP, Labour’s Shadow Apprenticeships Minister, responding to the Sutton Trust report that 3/5 of apprentices have lost out on work or learning as a result of the pandemic, said:

“Apprenticeships are crucial as a tool for social mobility and in our country’s fight against the productivity deficit that we have compared to other nations. This research demonstrates how precarious the apprenticeship sector is and the anticipated fall in new starts is deeply concerning.

“The Government have failed to adhere to Cabinet Office guidance on supporting the industry, with colleges facing huge financial pressures.

“To address Britain’s productivity crisis, the Government needs a joined up approach to skills and apprenticeships in order to support the aspirations of the younger generation.”

Ends

Notes to Editors

The Sutton Trust report shows that:

· The current health crisis is having a significant effect on apprenticeships.
· Employers surveyed say that up to two-thirds (60%) of their apprentices have lost out on work experience or learning. 36% have been furloughed, 8% made redundant and 17% have had their off-the-job learning suspended.
· The decline in new apprenticeships likely to be exacerbated by the crisis.