​​​​​​​Modern Apprenticeship Programme ‘creates, empowers and serves’ in Highland.

A Modern Apprenticeship Programme currently providing employment and training for almost 50 young people in The Highland Council has been welcomed by Members of the Council’s Corporate Resources Committee for creating opportunities, empowering young people and serving Highland communities.

Cllr Alister Mackinnon, Chair of the Corporate Resources Committee said: “Excellent progress has been made since the introduction of the Modern Apprenticeship Programme in August last year. Great work is being achieved in partnership with Skills Development Scotland, Inverness College University of the Highlands and Islands and some of our Highland Secondary Schools. The opportunities for young people in the Highlands are growing as the Programme develops.”

At the beginning of February, 49 apprentices were employed in Business Administration, Civil Engineering, Painting and Decorating, Carpentry and Joinery, Plumbing, Electricals, Mechanics, and Information Technology. These apprenticeships were provided in Dingwall, Inverness, Fort William, Golspie, Alness, Wick, Thurso, Dornoch and Portree.

Highland Council Leader, Cllr Margaret Davidson said:  This is heartening news to hear. I am pleased that the Council is also working closely with our partners in NHS Highland - who have problems with recruitment - to encourage them to also to establish apprenticeships as we have done.

“I think it is really important that we talk about Modern Apprenticeships as much as we possibly can. Every business in the Highlands should be thinking of employing apprentices if they can, including many of our traders, tradesmen and tradeswomen. This is a step change, it is a real opportunity and it is about encouraging a strong local workforce and retaining those who we can.”

Significant work has gone towards the expansion of the Modern Apprenticeships Programme in the coming 2018/19 financial year.