Issue - meetings

The Executive Member will consider a report which provides an update on apprenticeships in the city.

Resolved:

i.             That the contents of the report be noted.

Reason: To continue to encourage the creation of apprenticeship opportunities in York, by supporting local businesses to access available funding and to support routes to employment for residents.

ii.            That the updated framework through which local employers can apply to receive a transfer of the council’s unallocated levy funds to support new apprenticeship starts within their organisation.

Reason: To support inclusive growth by aligning the framework with the priorities set out in York’s 10-Year Skills Strategy.

The Executive Member considered a report which provided an update on apprenticeships in the city. The Skills Team Manager was in attendance to present the report and respond to questions.

Key points raised during the presentation of the report included:

·        New apprenticeship starts were up 3% in 2021 on the year prior.

·        There were around 180-200 apprenticeship vacancies within a 15 mile radius of York per week. These included a number of entry-level (Level 2) vacancies for various industries in the city.

·        Around 40% of vacancies were for Level 3 apprenticeships, which were more geared towards those seeking a career change.

·        Social media campaigns, events and other communications to raise awareness around apprenticeships were discussed.

·        Higher level technical, STEM and green roles were being prioritised, and City of York Council were looking to work with local businesses to fund them.

·        The new framework was simplified for businesses, shaped by experience of supporting businesses with levy transfer over the past year and aligned to the 10-year skills strategy.

Comments from the Executive Member included:

·        That he was pleased to see the strong links established with businesses and that £160,000 of support was being invested in local residents through apprenticeships.

·        That there were 79 apprentices currently working for City of York Council.

·        It was important to emphasise that while many apprentices may be aged 16-18, people can become apprentices at any point in their working life and at any age.

Resolved:

i.             That the contents of the report be noted.

Reason: To continue to encourage the creation of apprenticeship opportunities in York, by supporting local businesses to access available funding and to support routes to employment for residents.

ii.            That the updated framework through which local employers can apply to receive a transfer of the council’s unallocated levy funds to support new apprenticeship starts within their organisation.

Reason: To support inclusive growth by aligning the framework with the priorities set out in York’s 10-Year Skills Strategy.