Apprenticeships

That this House notes the importance of apprenticeships throughout the UK in helping young people achieve their full potential through employment; highlights that in the 2021 calendar year apprenticeship uptakes were sitting at 1,640,300 and in the most recent financial year increased to 1,719,600 across the UK; further notes that in Northern Ireland specifically 57% of people doing apprenticeships achieved a level 2 qualification and 38% achieved a level 3; underlines the important role apprenticeships play in holding up our economy and in giving young students the opportunity to explore the world of work throughout all industries, such as agriculture, engineering, manufacturing, accounting, business and so much more; encourages all young people to take advantage of these opportunities offered to them; and thanks local businesses and industries for giving young people a chance through apprenticeships.