THE number of young people on apprenticeships in Barnsley has risen compared to last year.
Barnsley Council’s quarter two performance report seen by cabinet members this month shows the percentage of 16-18-year-olds on an apprenticeship is at 11.1 per cent which is an increase from August 2014 of 1.9 per cent.
This sets the council ahead of its annual target of 9.5 per cent and puts it ahead of regional figures by 1.8 per cent and nationally by 4.2 per cent.
The council said although this is ‘excellent news’ for Barnsley challenges still remain as too any young people leave compulsory education without the skills and attitudes they need for the world of work.
There are low levels of adult skills, especially at GCSE and and A-level and above which ‘creates significant barriers to employment and career progression’. The council also says there is a lack of sufficient higher skilled jobs to drive aspiration and retain those with higher level skills.
Read more in this weeks Barnsley Chronicle
