The Scottish Government

This item was published during the term of a previous administration that ended in April 2007

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Modern Apprenticeships research

24/03/2004

Changes will be made to improve the expanding Modern Apprenticeship (MA) programme following new research, Deputy Enterprise and Lifelong Learning Minister Lewis Macdonald pledged today.

A study carried out by Glasgow CaledonianUniversity's Centre for Research and Lifelong Learning (CRLL) is recommending:

• Changes to the contracting arrangements with training providers
• Improving recruitment and induction procedures
• Engaging better with employers

Mr Macdonald said:

"MAs provide quality training opportunities and ensure that employers have a committed and highly trained workforce.

"As a result they are central to providing the skilled employees who will drive the Scottish economy for years to come.

"The MA Programme has well over 27,000 people in training and involves more than 13,000 employers. It provides a vital link between education and the world of work - many youngsters leave MAs to pursue excellent career opportunities.

"This research shows that link is working well and points to ways it can be improved even further."

Increasing numbers of trainees are benefiting from MAs which designed to provide a first step into the world of work, and has been praised by both employers and apprentices.

Figures show 48 per cent of those who enrol complete their MA, while a large number of the rest go on to take up employment or enter further or higher education.

The research shows that the completion rate is significantly higher than the equivalent Modern Apprenticeship programme inEngland(Advanced Modern Apprenticeship).

In addition, Scottish Enterprise andHighlandsand Islands Enterprise have confirmed that since the research was undertaken, between April and September 2003, the proportion of MAs completing courses has now increased to 52%.

Agencies delivering MAs have already responded positively to the research. Scottish Enterprise,Highlandsand Islands Enterprise and the Modern Apprenticeship Implementation Group have much of the suggested work underway with changes set to be made in coming months.

Jim Gallacher, Professor of Lifelong Learning at Glasgow Caledonian University and co-director of the CRLL headed the team who conducted the research. He believes the MA programme has a 'key part' to play in responding to Scotland's training needs.

He said:

"We hope that the findings from this research will contribute to improvements in this programme which will benefit the young people involved, their employers, and Scotland's economy."