Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 22 January 2019
46. Deputy Mick Wallace asked the Minister for Education and Skills the measures being taken to raise awareness and promote uptake of apprenticeship opportunities among school leavers particularly in view of the fact that only 3% of school leavers here take up apprenticeships as opposed to 60% in Germany; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2763/19]
View answerIt is important that learners and workers consider their options in an informed way throughout their education and working lives. The wide range of opportunities offered through the apprenticeship system should be an important part of this process.
This Government is committed to expanding the apprenticeship model into new sectors of the economy to give more choice to learners and to deliver key skills to employers. Government is working to promote apprenticeship as a programme of choice and have put significant additional resources into this area. A national promotional campaign, Generation Apprenticeship, has been underway since May 2017, led by the Apprenticeship Council and SOLAS.
In addition, an independent review of career guidance, which is being carried out by Indecon International Consultants, is examining the quality and range of information and resources available to students in schools and other settings. This will include an examination of how apprenticeship opportunities are presented to students.
In addition, work is also underway on a new portal to increase the visibility of apprenticeship opportunities. The portal will allow approved employers to advertise apprenticeships and to match with prospective apprentices. The new portal is expected to be rolled out in 2019 on completion of a pilot phase.
