CILT calls for company apprenticeships

Following recent official unemployment figures, which show a rise of 44,000 to more than 2.5 million people unemployed in the last quarter of 2010, and 965,000 16-24 year olds now without work, members of The Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport UK (CILT) are reinforcing calls for company apprenticeships to help build long-terms skills and training for young people in a dynamic industry sector, that offers strong and rewarding career prospects.

In a straw poll of its members, carried out by CILT, to coincide with the latest unemployment figures, and National Apprenticeships Week (7-11 February), responses from CILT members show almost unanimous support for apprenticeships among professional CILT members, most of whom work for leading national and international transport, distribution and logistics companies.

An overwhelming 98.5% of respondents expressed strong support for apprenticeships, although only 14% of respondents had been an apprentice themselves.

Typical detailed responses about apprenticeships were:

“They give a platform where young people can start gaining skills and experience.”

“Apprenticeships are vital for the continuance of established trades and also provide a firm and standardised foundation for new and emerging technologies.”

“There should be incentives to encourage all employers to adopt them.”

“Yes I do feel strongly that ALL companies offer apprenticeships.”

Steve Agg, chief executive of CILT said: 'I myself started my career as an apprentice, as did our President, Sir Moir Lockhead. I believe apprenticeships are an invaluable route into our profession, giving a grounding in development and training which cannot be underestimated. They should be encouraged and valued even more - by businesses and by government and its agencies. Our poll gives a good indication of the groundswell of support among businesses for the benefits of apprenticeships.'