Significant rise in apprenticeships in Fareham

The government figures show the number of people starting apprenticeships in the Fareham constituency more than doubled from 420 a year in 2009/10 to 880 in 2014/15.

The figure has risen by 140 since the previous year, and in total over 4,000 people have started one in Fareham since 2010.

The news has been welcomed by Fareham MP Suella Fernandes.

She said: ‘These figures are really good news. Over 4,000 new apprenticeships since 2010 means more young people in Fareham getting the skills to get on in life.

‘I’m a big fan of high-quality apprenticeships, and I’m very glad that the government is putting them at the heart of its skills strategy, with a commitment in our manifesto to deliver three million more by 2020.’

The news coincides with Ms Fernandes announcing that she will be holding an apprentices fair next month to encourage even more young people to take up the opportunity.

‘The fair is being held in conjunction with a range of local Fareham employers who support the initiative.

Ms Fernandes said: ‘Locally, I also want to help bring together leading local 
businesses with young people who have the potential to benefit from learning new skills.

‘That’s why I am holding an apprenticeships fair next month,

‘Apprenticeships are a unique and prestigious route into employment and I hope we can encourage even more school leavers to think about this option.

‘We’ve already received support from a number of local firms, including ParCar Ltd, where I met some excellent apprentices recently.

‘I would be delighted to hear from any others who want to be part of this event.

‘It is a very important issue, and I think this first fair will make a real difference and be something which can be repeated in future years.’

The fair will take place at Fareham Community College on February 12 from 10am to 3pm.

Local employers supporting the fair include Fareham Leisure Centre, engineering firm ParCar Ltd and logistics specialist Babcock International, along with recruitment companies Berry Recruitment and Reed.

Further details can be found on a dedicated website for the event at farehamapprenticeships.co.uk/.