Apprentices’ timely boost

OPPORTUNITIES for our young people, or lack of them, are a political hot potato at the moment.

Labour and the Con–Dem coalition are busy blaming each other for the high rate of youth unemployment.

How refreshing then today to see in Barrow, Furness and beyond so many positive stories about opportunities for young people in this National Apprenticeship Week.

One of the main headlines comes from BAE Systems. The defence giant has announced a five-year high in terms of its apprenticeship intake planned for Barrow this year with 136 apprenticeships up for grabs.

That’s a tremendous boost to Barrow and the wider economy.

Elsewhere up to 640 apprentices are planned over the next eight years at Sellafield.

And Centrica has revealed its success with its apprentice programme.

Ulverston-based Expro is set to bring in more apprentices. And Henry Armer and Sons at Leece and Greenodd has announced an apprentice in its workforce has scooped a national award.

We also shouldn’t forget the hugely important role played by our educational establishments.

Furness College and Kendal College are among those leading the way in apprenticeship training.

It’s a timely reminder that despite national doom and gloom, there is much to be positive about.

Now we need to remind all our politicians of the crucial role this area can play in helping get the UK economy back on track.