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 Monday, 1 June 2009 on behalf of the Department for Children, Schools and Families.

Apprentices

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Innovation, Universities and Skills which Government bodies are involved in the implementation of the apprenticeship programme for 16 to 18 year-olds; and what role each such body has in respect of that programme.

Answer: I have been asked to reply.The Department for Children, Schools and Families has lead policy responsibility for apprenticeships for 16 to 18-year-olds in England, and works closely with the Department for Innovation, University and Skills to ensure a coherent programme for young people and adults. A joint policy unit serves the needs of both Departments.The National Apprenticeship Service (NAS) has end to end responsibility for the delivery of the Apprenticeship programme, a role that will be confirmed in the Apprenticeships, Skills, Children and Learning Bill currently before Parliament. NAS is currently housed within the Learning and Skills Council (LSC), which is responsible for funding and contracting of post-16 provision. NAS works closely with the National Employer Service within the LSC to provide an integrated service to large employers delivering Train to Gain and Apprenticeships.The Prime Minister and both the Department for Children, Schools and Families and the Department for Innovation, University and Skills are determined to see a continuing renaissance in the number and quality of apprenticeships, and we work closely with the National Apprenticeship Service to ensure a coherent programme for 16 to 18-year-olds in England.

Secondary information