Andrew Griffith, Member of Parliament for Arundel and the South Downs, has urged local employers to join him in celebrating National Apprenticeship Week.
National Apprenticeship Week, which runs from 6th to 12th February, is an annual week-long celebration of apprenticeships, showcasing the positive impact apprenticeships can have on communities, local businesses, and regional economies.
One such showcase in West Sussex is Architectural Plants, which Mr Griffith has visited. The Pulborough based business has welcomed a large number of apprentices through its ‘Homegrown’ scheme, offering a dynamic and practical training programme for 18-24 year olds in horticulture.
For small businesses, the Government will contribute to 95% of an apprentice’s training and assessment fees, with a 100% contribution for apprentices between the ages of 16 and 18 in businesses with less than 50 employees.
Andrew Griffith MP said:
“Apprenticeship schemes are a crucial tool in our skills reform, and they provide vital routes into employment for thousands of young people
They are also vital in growing our local economy here in West Sussex and encourage business expansion.
I am celebrating National Apprenticeship Week as we continue to see apprenticeship schemes expand, delivering for the needs of young people and local businesses across our community.”