The success of apprenticeships across Eastleigh has been hailed by local MP Mims Davies and Eastleigh College Principal Jan Edrich as National Apprenticeship Week draws to a close.
Commenting, Eastleigh MP Mims Davies said:
“I cherish the relationship that I have with local skill providers, such as Eastleigh College and have been delighted to visit them and their students.
“The fact that over 6000 apprenticeship start-ups have been delivered in the Eastleigh constituency since 2010 is testament to their hard work and passion, and the continued commitment of this Government to deliver apprenticeships for local people.
“During a recent visit to Eastleigh College concerns over a shortage of care staff locally and a slow take-up of apprenticeships in the health and social care sector were raised with me, and I have already written to the Minister of State for Care, Caroline Dinenage, to pass on those concerns.
“It is my job as Eastleigh’s MP to ensure that the Government is listening to local issues, and my relationship with Eastleigh College and local businesses is key in my ability to do that.
“As we approach Brexit it is vital that Britain has the right mix of skills, and I am proud that apprenticeships will continue to ensure that our young people have the skills that they need to succeed.”
Commenting further, Dr Jan Edrich, Principal of Eastleigh College said:
“We have had an exciting week to mark National Apprenticeship Week. With an astounding 6,600 apprentices studying with us, we’ve built positive relationships with employers which is recognised in industry through various awards and competitions.
“Last year, our local employer partner Blake Morgan won Number 1 Employer for Apprenticeship Training of the Year, after working with us to deliver their Apprenticeship programmes, while one of our apprentices who works at Gelidus in Reading, also won the national SkillFRIDGE competition.
“It’s always a pleasure welcoming Mims Davies MP to the College to discuss our latest industry-standard facilities, some of which donated by local employers who value the importance of Apprenticeships and students gaining hands-on experience.
“Mims values the contributions apprentices make to the local economy and her regular contact with local businesses has aided the ongoing support we receive.”