Written question asked by Stephen O'Brien (Conservative) on Tuesday, 28 April 2009, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 30 April 2009. It was answered by Sarah McCarthy-Fry (Labour) on Tuesday, 5 May 2009 on behalf of the Department for Children, Schools and Families.

Apprentices

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Children, Schools and Families what the application process is for an apprenticeship under the Government apprenticeship scheme for 16 to 18 year-olds.

Answer: There are various routes by which young people may enter an Apprenticeship. Connexions services, and other agencies providing information, advice and guidance, refer young people to training providers and employers offering suitable Apprenticeship opportunities. Young people may also apply directly to training providers and employers. From the beginning of this year the national Apprenticeship on-line system for vacancy matching has been operating, providing a free service for employers and providers to advertise Apprenticeship vacancies, and allowing potential Apprentices to register and apply for vacancies. The National Apprenticeship Service, launched on 1 April 2009, will provide an end-to-end service to promote and deliver Apprenticeships for employers and individuals, including young people.

Secondary information