Summary of response
EEF is broadly supportive of the recommendations made within the document. We supported the findings of the Foster Review, and are gratified to see so many of its recommendations accepted in the white paper.
We are however disappointed that promotion of Level 3 provision is still being focused on young people, at a time when companies are facing the implementation of age discrimination legislation. This sends a mixed message to employers, who are simultaneously trying to upskill existing (older) employees, but can claim little funding for this activity.
It is not clear how the new Level 3 entitlement for people under 25 will address skills shortages by encouraging apprenticeships in the engineering sector. Apprentices rarely pay for their own training, employers pay for the training they receive while also paying the individual a salary. This entitlement
will only encourage more employers to offer apprenticeships or training if the provision is also free to the employer.
Of more significance to Apprenticeship activity is their place in the new 14-19 landscape which will include Specialised Diplomas. There must be functioning connectivity between these routes for young people.
5 July 2006