Memorandum submitted by Lindsay Jardine (KATO) (AS 20)

 

I am the Network Manager for KATO (Kent Association of Training Organisations) and am writing on behalf of the Training Providers who deliver Apprenticeship contracts in Kent and Medway (27 providers). 

 

With reference to the Apprenticeship Bill, I would like to voice our serious concerns regarding clause 35. 

 

I have recently been involved in arranging a series of seminars throughout Kent and Medway called Informed Choices. These Seminars were specifically targeted to inform Head Teachers, Teachers, Careers advisers and Connexions Staff about Apprenticeships to dispel the myths attached to Apprenticeships and explain the practicalities and benefits of this work based training route for young people.  These events were fully endorsed by the Leaders of Kent County Council and Medway Council, Kent Connexions CEO and Medway Youth Trust Connexions CEO.  All schools received personal invitations and a lot of funds were directed to publicity on promoting these events.

 

Although all schools staff throughout the county were invited to attend the events, only 24 schools out of the 165 schools had representation which resulted in the cancellation of three of the seven seminars.   The feedback received from those schools who attended was extremely positive and has resulted in planned visits to schools to run workshops for young people to inform the students about Apprenticeships. 

 

The concern of the Training Providers in our area is that although some schools advocate promoting Apprenticeships, the majority of schools are not giving impartial full and transparent advice regarding the progression routes at Post 16.  Clause 35 still gives schools the opportunity to "opt out" of providing this advice.  As training providers, we are fully aware that "one size does not fit all", and the provision of sixth form post 16 and FE is an appropriate route for many, however, if young people are not offered the information regarding Apprenticeships, they are not being given fully informed choice.

 

KATO members welcome the Bill but to ensure effective advice and guidance to young people, Clause 35 needs to be amended.

 

If you require any further information, please do not hesitate to contact me. 

 

March 2009