10 May 2000

DEVELOPING A WORLD CLASS WORKFORCE

A new guide to assist Northern Ireland employers in developing a world class workforce was today launched at a meeting of the NI Skills Task Force by its Chairman Bill McGinnis OBE.

The practical guide entitled "Making the Most of Modern Apprenticeships", has been produced by the Training and Employment Agency. An illustrated collection of employer case studies containing personal commendations from key players in the commercial and industrial life of Northern Ireland, it also features a number of Modern Apprentices who are currently under training.

Speaking at the launch Mr McGinnis said: "In an increasingly competitive and fast changing world, it is important to raise the levels of skills and competence of our young people through the attainment of NVQs and relevant Key Skills. Modern Apprenticeships equip young people with advanced occupational skills and broader key skills. These are essential for the flexible, creative workforce which is critical to Northern Ireland's competitiveness.

"The steady growth in the number of employers in Northern Ireland now embracing the Modern Apprenticeship concept, and employing young people from day one of their apprenticeship, confirms there are clear business benefits from adopting this structured programme.

"The guide is designed to increase employer awareness and publicise the advantages of Modern Apprenticeships as a realistic means of sourcing the supervisors, technicians and managers of the future and contributing significantly to the goals of Strategy 2010."

NOTES TO EDITORS:

All Modern Apprentices follow a training framework which is developed through consultation with the relevant industry and designed to lead to the achievement of National Vocational Qualification Level 3 plus relevant Key Skills and successful completion of an apprenticeship.

The case studies provide examples of some of the many and varied occupational areas where Modern Apprenticeships are now available. Areas included are Information Technology, Printing and Packaging, Engineering, Retailing, Construction, Electrical Installation and Catering/Hospitality.

Copies of "Making the Most of Modern Apprenticeships" are being distributed amongst employers and employers organisations throughout Northern Ireland and also to JobCentres and Training Organisations. It will also be available at - www.nics.gov.uk/mainhfe.htm from the beginning of June.

For further information contact

Kevin Mulhern Senior Information Officer Tel: 028 9025 7790 Mobile: 0788 1550849