Apprentices key to our workforce

As a parent I am acutely aware of the desire most of us have for our children to have the opportunity to choose a career path which is not just rewarding financially but which also offers some enjoyment and utilises their strengths.

- BY PAISLEY AND RENFREWSHIRE NORTH MP ALISON TAYLOR

For some this will be pursuing an academic route from high school into further education either at college or to university levels.

However, it is clear from speaking to other parents that this route isn’t for every child, some learn better getting their hands dirty and learning on the job.

This is where apprenticeships can help in delivering a new generation of people highly skilled in their trade, with practical skills they can take into the job market.

We also need to ensure our career guidance in schools is not biased in favour of one route over another and that we do not complicate the available choices for children.

It is important that we develop choice for young people so their ambitions can be fulfilled, current figures indicate that one in six young people from 16 to 24 in Scotland are not in work, education, or training.