New apprenticeships at lowest level since reform
The number of apprenticeships in the West Midlands has dropped to the lowest level since a Government shake-up of the system, figures show.
The Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development says a national drop in new starts shows the apprenticeship levy introduced in 2017 has “failed on all key measures”.
Department for Education data shows people in Staffordshire started 6,170 apprenticeships in the 2019-2020 academic year, down 15 per cent from 7,300 in the previous year.
Dudley started 2,480 apprenticeships, down 15 per cent from 2,910. For Sandwell, the 2,210 is down 23 per cent from 2,870, and 43 per cent from 3,880 in 2016-17.
Walsall’s was 1,820 is down 21 per cent from 2,310, and 41 per cent from 2016-2017. Wolverhampton started 1,640 apprenticeships, a fall of 26 per cent from 2,210 last year and 42 per cent from 2,850 in 2016-2017.
The DfE cautioned that the latest figures – which cover the academic year from August to July – were impacted by the coronavirus pandemic.
However, critics say the apprenticeship levy – a tax larger businesses pay towards a national fund for the training of apprentices – has caused confusion for employers.
Peter Cheese, chief executive of the CIPD, said: “On all key measures the apprenticeship levy has failed and is even acting to constrain firms’ investment in apprenticeships.
"It appears to have achieved the opposite of its objectives.”
Chancellor Rishi Sunak announced changes to apprenticeships in his budget, including more cash for businesses for each one started.
Skills minister, Gillian Keegan, said: “As we build back better, apprenticeships will play a vital role.”
